Oxidation States in NaBH4

The video tutorial explains how to find oxidation numbers for elements in sodium borohydride (NaBH4). It begins by noting that NaBH4 is a neutral compound, meaning the oxidation numbers must sum to zero. Sodium, being in group one, has a +1 oxidation state. Hydrogen, when bonded to metals or boron, has a -1 oxidation state. With four hydrogens, the total is -4. By setting boron's oxidation number as x, the equation 1 + x - 4 = 0 is solved to find x = +3. The video concludes by verifying the calculation, ensuring the sum equals zero, confirming the compound's neutrality.

What is the significance of the absence of a charge sign after the compound NaBH4?

• It suggests the compound is basic.

• It means the compound is acidic.

• It shows the compound is neutral.

• It indicates the compound is ionic.

What is the oxidation state of sodium in NaBH4?

• +2

• +1

• -1

• 0

When hydrogen is bonded to metals or boron, what is its oxidation state?

• 0

• +1

• -1

• +2

How many hydrogen atoms are present in NaBH4, and what is their total contribution to the oxidation state?

• 4 hydrogen atoms, contributing +4

• 4 hydrogen atoms, contributing -4

• 3 hydrogen atoms, contributing -3

• 3 hydrogen atoms, contributing +3

What is the oxidation number of boron in NaBH4?

• -3

• 0

• +1

• +3

What equation is used to determine the oxidation number of boron in NaBH4?

• 1 + x - 4 = 1

• 1 + x + 4 = 0

• 1 + x + 4 = 1

• 1 + x - 4 = 0

How do you verify that the oxidation numbers in NaBH4 add up to zero?

• By adding the oxidation numbers of sodium, boron, and hydrogen.

• By subtracting the oxidation numbers of sodium and hydrogen from boron.

• By multiplying the oxidation numbers of sodium and hydrogen.

• By dividing the oxidation numbers of sodium and boron.

What is the final step to confirm the neutrality of NaBH4?

• Check if the sum of oxidation numbers equals 0.

• Check if the sum of oxidation numbers equals +2.

• Check if the sum of oxidation numbers equals -1.

• Check if the sum of oxidation numbers equals +1.