Chapter 19, Problem 85A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Oxidation state of phosphorus in the given compounds and inference is to be determined

Concept introduction:

Oxidation number: It is defined as charge the atom would have if electrons are not shared but transfer completely.

Answer to Problem 85A

Phophorus can have many oxidation states. On changing the compound, oxidation state is changed.

Explanation of Solution

Oxidation state of $P$ in $P{H}_3$

$\begin{array}{l}x-3=0\\ x=3\end{array}$

Oxidation state of $P$ in $PC{l}_3$

$\begin{array}{l}x-3=0\\ x=3\end{array}$

Oxidation state of $P$ in $P_2{H}_4$

$\begin{array}{l}2x+4=0\\ 2x=4\\ x=2\end{array}$

Oxidation state of $P$ in $PC{l}_5$

$\begin{array}{l}x-5=0\\ x=5\end{array}$

Oxidation state of $P$ in $H_{3}P{O}_4$

$\begin{array}{l}3+x-8=0\\ x=5\end{array}$

Oxidation state of $P$ in $N{a}_{3}P{O}_3$

$\begin{array}{l}3+x-6=0\\ x=3\end{array}$

Conclusion

Thus phosphorus can show more than one oxidation state.