Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
What is the oxidation state (charge) of chromium in the complex ion [Cr(NH3)3Br3]?
A
+2
B
+6
C
0
D
+3
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the overall charge of the complex ion. Since the problem does not specify an overall charge, assume the complex is neutral.
Determine the charges of the ligands attached to chromium. Ammonia (NH3) is a neutral ligand with a charge of 0, and bromide (Br) is a monodentate ligand with a charge of -1.
Set up an equation to represent the sum of the oxidation state of chromium (let it be x) plus the charges of the ligands equal to the overall charge of the complex. This gives: $x + 3(0) + 3(-1) = 0$.
Simplify the equation to find the oxidation state of chromium: $x - 3 = 0$.
Solve for $x$ to find the oxidation state of chromium: $x = +3$.