Textbook Question
Identify the group 3A element that best fits each of the following descriptions.
(c) Is a semiconductor
Ch.22 - The Main Group Elements
Chapter 22, Problem 83
What is the oxidation state of the group 3A element in each of the following compounds? (a) NaBF4 (b) GaCl3 (c) TlCl (d) B2H6
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the concept of oxidation states. The oxidation state (or oxidation number) of an element in a compound is a theoretical charge that an atom would have if all bonds to atoms of different elements were 100% ionic.
Step 2: Identify the known oxidation states of other elements in the compounds. For example, in NaBF4, sodium (Na) typically has an oxidation state of +1, and fluorine (F) typically has an oxidation state of -1.
Step 3: Apply the rule that the sum of oxidation states in a neutral compound is zero. For example, in NaBF4, the sum of the oxidation states of Na, B, and F must equal zero.
Step 4: Solve for the unknown oxidation state of the group 3A element in each compound. For example, in NaBF4, if Na is +1 and each F is -1, then the oxidation state of B can be found by setting up the equation: +1 + x + 4(-1) = 0, where x is the oxidation state of B.
Step 5: Repeat the process for each compound: (b) GaCl3, (c) TlCl, and (d) B2H6, using the known oxidation states of Cl (-1) and H (+1) to find the oxidation states of Ga, Tl, and B respectively.
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Oxidation State
The oxidation state, or oxidation number, is a theoretical charge assigned to an atom in a compound based on the assumption that electrons are completely transferred. It helps in understanding the electron distribution in molecules and is crucial for determining how elements react chemically. Oxidation states can be positive, negative, or zero, and they follow specific rules for calculation.
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Oxidation Numbers
Group 3A Elements
Group 3A elements, also known as Group 13 elements, include boron (B), aluminum (Al), gallium (Ga), indium (In), and thallium (Tl). These elements typically exhibit a +3 oxidation state in their compounds, although they can also show other oxidation states depending on the chemical environment. Understanding the common oxidation states of these elements is essential for predicting their behavior in chemical reactions.
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Ionic and Covalent Compounds
Compounds can be classified as ionic or covalent based on the nature of the bond between their constituent atoms. Ionic compounds, formed between metals and nonmetals, involve the transfer of electrons, leading to the formation of charged ions. In contrast, covalent compounds involve the sharing of electrons between atoms. Recognizing the type of compound helps in determining the oxidation states of the elements involved.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question
Identify the group 3A element that best fits each of the following descriptions.
(a) Has an unusually low melting point
Textbook Question
What is the most common oxidation state for each of the
group 3A elements?
Textbook Question
(a) Describe what is meant by an electron-deficient molecule.
Textbook Question
(b) Describe what is meant by a three-center, two-electron bond.
Textbook Question
Suggest a structure for the mixed aluminum–boron hydride AlBH6.