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Multiple Choice
What is the oxidation state of nitrogen in N_2O_5?
A
+4
B
+2
C
+3
D
+5
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1
Identify the overall charge of the compound N_2O_5, which is neutral (0).
Assign the oxidation state of oxygen as -2, since oxygen almost always has an oxidation state of -2 in compounds.
Let the oxidation state of nitrogen be x. Since there are 2 nitrogen atoms and 5 oxygen atoms, write the equation for the sum of oxidation states: \(2x + 5(-2) = 0\).
Simplify the equation: \(2x - 10 = 0\).
Solve for x: \(2x = 10\) so \(x = +5\). Therefore, the oxidation state of nitrogen in N_2O_5 is +5.