Oxidation Numbers in C2H2

The video tutorial explains why C2H2 is a neutral molecule by calculating its oxidation numbers. It starts by identifying hydrogen's oxidation number as +1 when bonded to carbon, a non-metal. The total charge of the molecule is +2, requiring each carbon atom to have an oxidation number of -1 to balance the charges and maintain neutrality. The tutorial concludes by summarizing the oxidation numbers for C2H2.

Why is C2H2 considered a neutral molecule?

• Because it has a negative charge.

• Because the sum of its oxidation numbers is zero.

• Because it has an equal number of protons and electrons.

• Because it has a positive charge.

What is the oxidation number of hydrogen when bonded to a non-metal?

• +1

• +2

• 0

• -1

What is the total charge contributed by hydrogen atoms in C2H2?

• -2

• +1

• 0

• +2

What must be the oxidation number of each carbon atom in C2H2 to maintain neutrality?

• 0

• -2

• -1

• +1

How does the oxidation number of carbon in C2H2 contribute to the molecule's neutrality?

• It has no effect on the charge.

• It balances the positive charge of hydrogen.

• It adds to the positive charge.

• It makes the molecule positively charged.

What is the overall oxidation number of C2H2?

• +2

• -2

• +1

• 0