What is the oxidation state for each family?

Answer 1

Simple Ions: Atoms that have gained (cation) or lost (anion) electrons and the oxidation state is generally consistent.Family 1A (Alkali Metals): +1

Family 2A (Alkaline Earth Metals): +2

Family 3A (Boron Family): +3

Family 4A (Carbon Family): +4 or -4 (Depends on the element you're dealing with)

Family 5A (Nitrogen Family): -3

Family 6A (Chalcogens): -2

Family 7A (Halogens Family): -1

Family 8A (Nobel Gases): 0 (inert)

Multivalent Ions: Atoms of a given element may lose more or gain more electrons than another atom of the same element (Note: This applies to most of the B Families).

There is a very long list but the general rule is the roman numeral next to the Atomic Symbol represent how many are taken/added. For example Cu+1 is Cuprous in Latin and the Stock System* is Copper (1) while Cu+2 is Cupric in Latin and the Stock System* is Copper (2)

*Stock System is the elongated version of the Symbol and the Latin name.*

Polyatomic Ions (Also Known as Radicals): Sometimes groups of atoms will share electrons to form clusters that are not neutral like they should be (Note: Only the most common are listed below).

NH4+1: Ammonium

H3O+1: Hydronium

OH-1: Hydroxide

CN-1: Cyanide

C2H3O2-1: Acetate

CH3COO-1: Acetate (yes there are two)

ClO3-1: Chlorate

HCO3-1: Bicarbonate

CO3-1: Carbonate

NO2-1: Nitrate

NO2-1: Nirite

CrO4-2: Chromate

Cr2O7-2: Dichromate

HSO4-1: Bisulfate

SO3-2: Sulfite

SO4-2: Sulfate

PO3-3: Phosphite

PO4-3: Phosphate