Multiple Choice
In the reaction Fe2O3 + 3CO → 2Fe + 3CO2, which element is oxidized?
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6. Chemical Quantities & Aqueous Reactions
Calculate Oxidation Numbers
Multiple Choice
In which of the following compounds does nitrogen have an oxidation number of -3?
A
N2O
B
NH3
C
NO2
D
HNO3
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall the general rules for assigning oxidation numbers: the sum of oxidation numbers in a neutral compound is zero, and common oxidation states for hydrogen and oxygen are +1 and -2, respectively.
For each compound, assign oxidation numbers to known elements and use the overall charge balance to find nitrogen's oxidation number.
In \(\mathrm{N_2O}\), oxygen is usually -2, so set up the equation: \$2x + (-2) = 0\(, where \)x\( is the oxidation number of nitrogen. Solve for \)x$.
In \(\mathrm{NH_3}\), hydrogen is +1, so set up the equation: \(x + 3(+1) = 0\), where \(x\) is nitrogen's oxidation number. Solve for \(x\).
Repeat the process for \(\mathrm{NO_2}\) and \(\mathrm{HNO_3}\), then compare the nitrogen oxidation numbers to identify which compound has nitrogen at -3.
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