Question

Determine the oxidation states of the elements in the compounds listed. None of the oxygen-containing compounds are peroxides or superoxide.
(a)H3PO4
(b)Al(OH)3
(c)SeO2
(d)KNO2
(e)In2S3
(f)P4O6

Answer 1

Answer:

Explanation:

You need to remember that the oxidation number of H is +1, except when it is in a metal hydrites like NaH, where its oxidation number is -1. Then, the oxidation number of O is -2, but in peroxides is -1. So with these rules you just have to multiply the ox. number with the name of atoms and all the elements in the reaction must sum 0.