What is the oxidation state of nitrogen in NO3^-?

Study for the AC-HPAT Chemistry Test. Explore flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively and excel in your upcoming exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the oxidation state of nitrogen in NO3^-?

Explanation:
When assigning oxidation states, electrons in bonds are assigned to the more electronegative atom. Oxygen is more electronegative than nitrogen, so each O contributes a oxidation number of -2. With three oxygens, the total from oxygen is -6. The overall charge of the nitrate ion is -1, so if we call nitrogen’s oxidation state x, then x + (-6) = -1. Solving gives x = +5. So nitrogen is in the +5 oxidation state. The other options don’t balance to the overall -1 charge: +3 would give -3 total, +6 would give 0, and 0 would give -6.

When assigning oxidation states, electrons in bonds are assigned to the more electronegative atom. Oxygen is more electronegative than nitrogen, so each O contributes a oxidation number of -2. With three oxygens, the total from oxygen is -6. The overall charge of the nitrate ion is -1, so if we call nitrogen’s oxidation state x, then x + (-6) = -1. Solving gives x = +5. So nitrogen is in the +5 oxidation state. The other options don’t balance to the overall -1 charge: +3 would give -3 total, +6 would give 0, and 0 would give -6.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy