Multiple Choice
What is the oxidation number of oxygen in CO (carbon monoxide)?
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6. Chemical Quantities & Aqueous Reactions
Calculate Oxidation Numbers
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which of the following rules for assigning oxidation numbers is correct?
A
The oxidation number of hydrogen in all compounds is -1.
B
The oxidation number of fluorine in compounds is usually +1.
C
The oxidation number of chlorine in compounds is always -2.
D
The oxidation number of oxygen in most compounds is -2.
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall the general rules for assigning oxidation numbers in compounds, which help determine the electron distribution among atoms.
Understand that hydrogen usually has an oxidation number of +1 when bonded to nonmetals, and -1 when bonded to metals, so the statement 'hydrogen in all compounds is -1' is incorrect.
Know that fluorine is the most electronegative element and always has an oxidation number of -1 in its compounds, so the statement 'fluorine in compounds is usually +1' is incorrect.
Recognize that chlorine can have multiple oxidation states, commonly -1, but not always -2, so the statement 'chlorine in compounds is always -2' is incorrect.
Remember that oxygen typically has an oxidation number of -2 in most compounds (except in peroxides and some other exceptions), making the statement 'the oxidation number of oxygen in most compounds is -2' correct.
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