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Oxidation Numbers
An oxidation number is a positive or negative number that indicates how many electrons an atom has gained, lost, or shared to become stable.
1,632 Questions
A molecule of a compound must be electrically neutral overall. There is only one y atom in the formula, so that the total contribution of charge from y is +2. There are two x atoms, and each of them must have an oxidation number of -1 for a total of -2 to neutralize the charge from y.
Redox equations are considered balanced when the total increase in oxidation numbers equals the total decrease in oxidation numbers. This balance ensures that the number of electrons lost in oxidation matches the number of electrons gained in reduction. By achieving this equilibrium, the conservation of charge and mass is maintained in the chemical reaction. Consequently, the overall reaction accurately reflects the transfer of electrons between species.
What is irons oxidation number?
The oxidation number of iron can vary, but it is commonly found at +2 or +3. In some compounds, like Fe2O3, iron is in the +3 oxidation state, while in others, like FeO, it is in the +2 oxidation state.
What is the oxidation number for nickel?
The most common oxidation state for nickel is +2. Nickel can also exhibit oxidation states of +1, +3, +4, and +0 in certain compounds.
In the reaction of aluminum with oxygen to form aluminum oxide (Al + O2 -> Al2O3), the oxidation number of aluminum changes from 0 to +3, while the oxidation number of oxygen changes from 0 to -2. This indicates that aluminum is undergoing oxidation, while oxygen is undergoing reduction in the reaction.
