Multiple Choice
Given the complex ion [Fe(CN)_6]^{4-}, what is the oxidation number of iron (Fe) in the complex?
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6. Chemical Quantities & Aqueous Reactions
Calculate Oxidation Numbers
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What is the oxidation state of phosphorus (P) in the ion PO_3^{3-}?
A
-3
B
+3
C
+1
D
+5
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the overall charge of the ion, which is \(-3\) for \(\mathrm{PO_3^{3-}}\).
Recall that oxygen typically has an oxidation state of \(-2\) in most compounds.
Set up an equation where the oxidation state of phosphorus is \(x\), and the total oxidation states sum to the ion's charge: \(x + 3(-2) = -3\).
Simplify the equation: \(x - 6 = -3\).
Solve for \(x\) to find the oxidation state of phosphorus: \(x = -3 + 6\).
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