Nitrate Ion and Oxidation Numbers

This video tutorial explains how to determine the oxidation numbers for each element in aluminum nitrate (Al(NO3)3). It begins by noting that the compound is neutral, meaning the oxidation numbers must sum to zero. The nitrate ion (NO3) is identified with a charge of -1, and the video explains how the oxidation numbers of the elements within the ion add up to this charge. The tutorial then calculates the oxidation numbers for the entire compound, concluding that aluminum must have an oxidation number of +3. Additional resources are provided for further understanding.

What is the overall charge of aluminum nitrate?

• Positive

• Negative

• Neutral

• Depends on the conditions

What is the charge of the nitrate ion (NO3)?

• 1+

• 1-

• 2+

• 2-

How do the oxidation numbers of elements in an ion relate to the ion's charge?

• They are always positive

• They are equal to the number of elements

• They add up to the ion's charge

• They are always zero

If the nitrate ion has a charge of 1-, what is the total charge for three nitrate ions?

• 2-

• 1-

• 3-

• 0

What must be the oxidation number of aluminum in aluminum nitrate to balance the charges?

• 1+

• 0

• 2+

• 3+

Where can you find additional help for determining the oxidation number of nitrogen in the nitrate ion?

• In the video thumbnail

• In the video title

• In the video comments

• In the video description