Textbook Question
Identify the group 5A element that best fits each of the following descriptions.
(a) Forms strong π bonds
Ch.22 - The Main Group Elements
Chapter 22, Problem 107
Give the chemical formula for each of the following compounds, and indicate the oxidation state of the group 5A element. (a) Nitric oxide (b) Nitrous acid (c) Phosphine (d) Phosphoric acid
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the chemical formula for each compound: (a) Nitric oxide is NO, (b) Nitrous acid is HNO2, (c) Phosphine is PH3, (d) Phosphoric acid is H3PO4.
Determine the oxidation state of the group 5A element in each compound: For nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen is the group 5A element.
Calculate the oxidation state of nitrogen in NO: Oxygen typically has an oxidation state of -2. Set up the equation: x + (-2) = 0, where x is the oxidation state of nitrogen.
For nitrous acid (HNO2), identify the oxidation state of nitrogen: Hydrogen is +1, and oxygen is -2. Set up the equation: 1 + x + 2(-2) = 0.
For phosphine (PH3) and phosphoric acid (H3PO4), determine the oxidation state of phosphorus: In PH3, hydrogen is +1, and in H3PO4, hydrogen is +1 and oxygen is -2. Set up the equations: 3(+1) + x = 0 for PH3, and 3(+1) + x + 4(-2) = 0 for H3PO4.
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Oxidation States
Oxidation states, or oxidation numbers, indicate the degree of oxidation of an atom in a compound. They help in understanding electron transfer during chemical reactions. For group 5A elements, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, the oxidation state can vary based on the compound's structure and the other elements present.
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Oxidation Numbers
Chemical Formulas
A chemical formula represents the composition of a compound, showing the types and numbers of atoms involved. For example, nitric oxide is represented as NO, indicating one nitrogen atom and one oxygen atom. Understanding how to derive these formulas is essential for identifying compounds and their properties.
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Acids and Bases
Acids and bases are fundamental concepts in chemistry, where acids donate protons (H+) and bases accept them. Nitrous acid (HNO2) and phosphoric acid (H3PO4) are examples of acids that contain group 5A elements. Recognizing the behavior of these compounds in solution is crucial for determining their chemical properties and reactions.
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