- #1
wasteofo2
- 478
- 2
When dealing with an equation in which you combine 2 elements that have multiple oxidation states, let's say Magnesium and Nitrogen, which oxidation states do you assume you're working with? I know that in the instance of Magnesium and Nitrogen, it would have to be one of Nitrogen's negative oxidation states, and Magnesium would be +2, but aside from that, I'm not sure. Should you just assume it's the first listed on the periodic table for Nitrogen, or should I assume -2?
Last edited: