Oxidation States in Copper Nitrate

The video tutorial explains how to determine the oxidation numbers of elements in copper(II) nitrate (Cu(NO3)2). It begins by discussing the neutrality of the compound and the role of transition metals like copper, which can have varying oxidation states. The tutorial emphasizes the importance of recognizing the nitrate ion (NO3-) and its charge. It then guides viewers through calculating the oxidation numbers for copper, nitrogen, and oxygen, concluding with the final oxidation numbers for each element.

What is the overall charge of copper(II) nitrate?

• Neutral

• Negative

• Variable

• Positive

What is the charge of the nitrate ion?

• -2

• +2

• +1

• -1

How many nitrate ions are present in copper(II) nitrate?

• Three

• Two

• Four

• One

What must be the oxidation number of copper to balance the charge of two nitrate ions?

• +4

• +3

• +2

• +1

What is the oxidation number of nitrogen in the nitrate ion?

• +6

• +3

• +4

• +5

What is the oxidation number of oxygen in most compounds?

• -1

• -2

• -3

• -4

How does the oxidation number of nitrogen and oxygen in nitrate add up to the ion's charge?

• They add up to -2

• They add up to -1

• They add up to +1

• They add up to zero

What is the oxidation number of each oxygen atom in the nitrate ion?

• -1

• -2

• -3

• -4

What is the oxidation number of copper in copper(II) nitrate?

• +4

• +1

• +3

• +2

Which element in copper(II) nitrate has a variable oxidation state?

• Oxygen

• All of them

• Copper

• Nitrogen