What are the oxidation numbers for each element in these compounds and ions?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the oxidation numbers for various elements in specified compounds and ions. Participants are seeking clarification on how to accurately assign oxidation states in different chemical contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a list of compounds and their proposed oxidation numbers, expressing uncertainty about their correctness.
  • Another participant notes that each type of atom in a compound has different oxidation numbers, suggesting that a single answer may not suffice for each compound.
  • A third participant acknowledges the need to specify the oxidation numbers for each element rather than providing a single value.
  • A later reply questions the clarity of the oxidation number assignment in a specific compound with multiple elements.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that oxidation numbers vary among different elements within a compound, but there is no consensus on the specific values assigned in the initial post. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the correctness of the proposed oxidation numbers.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include potential ambiguity in the assignment of oxidation numbers to multiple elements within compounds, as well as the need for clear definitions of oxidation states for each atom involved.

yuuri14
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Determine the oxidation number for each atoms in the following compounds or ions:
a) H3 0+
ox # -2
b)P4 O10
ox #-3
c)S8
ox #5
d)H2 CO
ox #4
e)NH4 CLO4
ox #2
I need help to know if i am doing it right.
 
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Each type of atom in each compound will have a different oxidation number...so for a you have different answers for oxygen and hydrogen, for b you have different oxidation numbers for phosphorous and oxygen, d has 3 elements, etc...
 
Thanks 4 the help. I know that I need to just tell the ox. #s +/- of each the elements.
 
So you can't give ONE answer to each question.

e has four elements - oxidation number 2 refers to H, N, O or Cl?
 

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