Answer
Full Solution Locked
Sign in to view the complete step-by-step solution and unlock all study resources.
Step 1:: Understand the problem
The oxidation number of an element in a compound is a measure of the element's degree of oxidation, which describes the loss or gain of electrons. The oxidation number of a neutral compound is zero. In this problem, we are asked to find the oxidation number of nitrogen (N) in ammonia (NH3).
Step 2:: Identify the rules for assigning oxidation numbers
The rules for assigning oxidation numbers are as follows:
Step 3:
The oxidation number of a free element (not bonded to another element) is zero.
Step 4:
The oxidation number of a monatomic ion is equal to its charge.
Step 5:
The sum of the oxidation numbers of all atoms in a compound is zero.
Step 6:
The oxidation number of hydrogen is + 1, except in metal hydrides, where it is - 1.
Step 7:
The oxidation number of oxygen is - 2, except in peroxides and superoxides.
Step 8:: Apply the rules to find the oxidation number of nitrogen in NH^3
x + 3 = 0
Since ammonia (NH3) is a neutral compound, the sum of the oxidation numbers of all atoms in NH^3 is zero. Let the oxidation number of nitrogen be x. The oxidation number of hydrogen is + 1. There are 3 hydrogen atoms in NH^3, so the sum of the oxidation numbers of the hydrogen atoms is 3 * (+ 1) = + 3. Since the sum of the oxidation numbers of all atoms in NH^3 is zero, we have:
Step 9:: Solve for the oxidation number of nitrogen
x = -3
Subtract 3 from both sides of the equation: Therefore, the oxidation number of nitrogen in NH^3 is - 3.
Final Answer
The oxidation number of nitrogen in NH^3 is - 3.
Need Help with Homework?
Stuck on a difficult problem? We've got you covered:
- Post your question or upload an image
- Get instant step-by-step solutions
- Learn from our AI and community of students