Chapter 18, Problem 8QAP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason for sum of all the oxidation states of the atoms in a neutral molecule to be zero should be explained.

Concept Introduction:

Oxidation state also known as oxidation number is actually defined as the degree of oxidation or loss of electrons by an atom. It can be positive, negative, or zero depending on the nature oxidation or reduction of the species.

During oxidation, oxidation number increases and on reduction it decreases. In oxidation and reduction reactions, transfer of electrons take place in such a way a net gain of electrons represents reduction and net loss of electrons represents oxidation. The pure elements remain in zero oxidation state.