Examples

In this post, we will determine the oxidation numbers in N2O.

To determine the oxidation number of an atom(s) in a molecule or an ion, start with the known oxidation numbers and the rules summarized below:

 

 

Keep in mind that the summary is zero for neutral molecules and is equal to the charge for ions.

For N2O, the element with a standard oxidation state is oxygen which is -2, and we need to determine the oxidation state of the nitrogen. 

Rule 8 – The oxidation number of oxygen is -2:

Assign x for the oxidation state of N and set up an equation:

2(x) + 1(-2) = 0, x = +1

 

Further Reading

 

More examples of the oxidation state in this multiple-choice quiz:

Free

Oxidation State and Redox Reactions Quiz

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Reactions in Aqueous Solutions Quiz

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