Oxidation States and Neutral Compounds

The video tutorial explains how to determine the oxidation number for lead in the compound PbI2, known as lead(II) iodide. It begins by noting that PbI2 is a neutral compound, meaning the sum of its oxidation numbers is zero. Lead, a transition metal, can have various oxidation states, but in this case, it is bonded to iodine. Iodine, being in group 17, typically has a -1 oxidation state unless bonded to oxygen or fluorine. With two iodine atoms, the total is -2, requiring lead to have a +2 oxidation state to balance the compound. Thus, the oxidation number for lead in PbI2 is +2.

What does it mean when a compound like PbI2 has no charge indicated?

• It is an unstable compound.

• It is a neutral compound.

• It is a negatively charged compound.

• It is a positively charged compound.

Why can lead have different oxidation states?

• Because it is always bonded to oxygen.

• Because it is a noble gas.

• Because it is a non-metal.

• Because it is a transition metal.

What is the oxidation state of iodine in PbI2?

• +1

• 0

• -1

• -2

How do the oxidation numbers in a neutral compound like PbI2 add up?

• They add up to a positive number.

• They add up to a negative number.

• They add up to zero.

• They add up to one.

What is the oxidation number of lead in PbI2?

• +1

• +2

• +4

• +3