Chapter 16, Problem 49E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The oxidation state of vanadium ineach compoundis to be calculated.

Concept Introduction:

The oxidation state of a substance is defined as the number of electrons lost or gained in a chemical compound. Oxidation state could be zero, positive or negative. An atom which gains electron has a negative oxidation number and atom which loses electrons has a positive oxidation number.

The oxidation state of an atom in a free state is zero.

The oxidation state of a monatomic ion is equal to the charge (positive and negative) on the ion.

Each group possesses a specific oxidation state. The oxidation state of group I elements is $+1$, group II elements are $+2$.