Chapter 4, Problem 4SEPP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The sequence of oxidation numbers for nitrogen in the provided compounds is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Oxidation number can be assigned using the following rules:

In the free state, an element always has an oxidation number of $0$.

For a neutral compound, oxidation numbers of atoms present in the compound add to $0$.

In a polyatomic ion, oxidation number of atoms add up to the charge on the ion.

The oxidation number of a monoatomic ions is same as its charge.

Oxygen usually has the oxidation state $-2$ except in peroxides and in compounds with halogen.

Oxidation state of hydrogen is usually $+1$, except in metal hydrides.