Multiple Choice
What is the oxidation number of hydrogen (H) in the compound HPO4^2-?
6. Chemical Quantities & Aqueous Reactions
Calculate Oxidation Numbers
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What is the oxidation state of each individual carbon atom in the oxalate ion (C₂O₄²⁻)?
A
+3
B
+1
C
+2
D
+3
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the oxalate ion is represented by the formula \( \text{C}_2\text{O}_4^{2-} \). It consists of two carbon atoms and four oxygen atoms, carrying an overall charge of -2.
Recall that the oxidation state of oxygen in most compounds is -2. Since there are four oxygen atoms, their total contribution to the charge is \( 4 \times (-2) = -8 \).
Set up an equation to find the oxidation state of carbon. Let \( x \) be the oxidation state of each carbon atom. The sum of the oxidation states of all atoms in the ion must equal the overall charge of the ion, which is -2.
Write the equation: \( 2x + 4(-2) = -2 \). This accounts for the two carbon atoms and four oxygen atoms.
Solve the equation for \( x \) to find the oxidation state of each carbon atom. This will give you the oxidation state of carbon in the oxalate ion.
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