Understanding PF3 and Oxidation States

The video tutorial explains how to find the oxidation numbers for each element in phosphorus trifluoride (PF3). It begins by noting that PF3 is a neutral compound, meaning the oxidation numbers must sum to zero. Fluorine is identified as having an oxidation number of -1. With three fluorine atoms, the total is -3, requiring phosphorus to have an oxidation number of +3 to balance the compound. The tutorial concludes by verifying the calculations and confirming the oxidation numbers.

What is the overall charge of the PF3 compound?

• Negative

• Depends on the environment

• Positive

• Neutral

What is the oxidation number of fluorine in PF3?

• +3

• 0

• -1

• +1

How many fluorine atoms are present in PF3?

• 2

• 3

• 4

• 1

What must be the oxidation number of phosphorus in PF3 to balance the compound?

• 0

• +3

• -3

• +5

What is the sum of the oxidation numbers in a neutral compound like PF3?

• -1

• Depends on the elements

• 1

• 0