Chapter 19, Problem 39A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The oxidation number of copper in given compounds is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Copper is a transition metal. All the transition metals show color in their compounds.

Black color compound of copper is $CuO$

Red color compound of copper is $C{u}_{2}O$

Answer to Problem 39A

Oxidation number of $Cu$ in $CuO$ = +2

Oxidation number of $Cu$ in $C{u}_{2}O$ = +1

Explanation of Solution

Oxidation number of $Cu$ in $CuO$

$\begin{array}{l}x-2=0\\ x=2\end{array}$

Oxidation number of $Cu$ in $C{u}_{2}O$

$\begin{array}{l}2\times x-2=0\\ 2x-2=0\\ 2x=2\\ x=1\end{array}$

Conclusion

Thus,

Oxidation number of $Cu$ in $CuO$ (black colored compound) = +2

Oxidation number of $Cu$ in $C{u}_{2}O$ (red colored compound) = +1