Multiple Choice
What is the oxidation state of each individual carbon atom in the oxalate ion (C₂O₄²⁻)?
6. Chemical Quantities & Aqueous Reactions
Calculate Oxidation Numbers
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What is the oxidation state of the central metal ion in K2[Ni(CN)4]?
A
0
B
+3
C
+4
D
+2
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the overall charge of the complex ion [Ni(CN)4]2-. Since K2[Ni(CN)4] is a neutral compound, the charge of the complex ion must balance the charge of the two potassium ions, each with a +1 charge, resulting in a total charge of +2 from potassium ions.
Recognize that the cyanide ion (CN-) has a charge of -1. Since there are four cyanide ions, the total negative charge contributed by the cyanide ions is -4.
Set up an equation to find the oxidation state of nickel (Ni). Let the oxidation state of Ni be x. The equation will be: x + 4(-1) = -2, where -2 is the charge of the complex ion.
Solve the equation for x: x - 4 = -2. Add 4 to both sides to isolate x.
Conclude that the oxidation state of Ni is +2, as solving the equation gives x = +2.
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