Lithium Nitride and Oxidation States

The video tutorial explains how to find oxidation numbers for each element in lithium nitride (Li3N). It begins by noting that Li3N is a neutral compound, meaning the oxidation numbers must sum to zero. Lithium, being in group one of the periodic table, has a +1 oxidation number. The video then calculates the oxidation number for nitrogen, ensuring the total equals zero. The tutorial concludes by summarizing the oxidation numbers for each element in Li3N.

What is the overall charge of a neutral compound like lithium nitride?

• Positive

• Zero

• Negative

• Depends on the elements

Which group on the periodic table does lithium belong to?

• Group 2

• Group 1

• Group 3

• Group 4

What is the oxidation number of lithium in lithium nitride?

• 0

• -1

• +2

• +1

How many lithium atoms are there in lithium nitride?

• 4

• 3

• 2

• 1

What oxidation number must nitrogen have to balance the compound lithium nitride?

• -1

• +1

• -3

• +3