In the following pictures of binary hydrides, ivory spheres
represent H atoms or ions, and burgundy spheres represent
atoms or ions of the other element.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(b) What is the oxidation state of hydrogen in compounds (1), (2), and (3)? What is the oxidation state of the other
element?

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Identify the general rule for the oxidation state of hydrogen in binary hydrides, which is typically +1 when bonded to non-metals and -1 when bonded to metals.

Examine compound (1) and determine if hydrogen is bonded to a metal or non-metal to assign its oxidation state.

Examine compound (2) and determine if hydrogen is bonded to a metal or non-metal to assign its oxidation state.

Examine compound (3) and determine if hydrogen is bonded to a metal or non-metal to assign its oxidation state.

For each compound, use the known oxidation state of hydrogen to deduce the oxidation state of the other element, ensuring the sum of oxidation states equals the overall charge of the compound, which is zero for neutral compounds.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Oxidation State

The oxidation state, or oxidation number, is a theoretical charge assigned to an atom in a compound, reflecting its degree of oxidation or reduction. It helps in understanding electron transfer in chemical reactions. For hydrogen, the oxidation state is typically +1 when bonded to nonmetals and -1 when bonded to metals.

Binary Hydrides

Binary hydrides are compounds formed between hydrogen and one other element, typically a metal or a nonmetal. The properties and oxidation states of hydrogen in these compounds can vary based on the nature of the other element. Understanding the type of bonding and the electronegativity of the other element is crucial for determining oxidation states.

Electronegativity

Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons in a chemical bond. It plays a significant role in determining the oxidation states of elements in compounds. In binary hydrides, the relative electronegativities of hydrogen and the other element dictate whether hydrogen will have a positive or negative oxidation state.

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