The oxidation number of P in PO₄^3- is: A)-3 B)-5 C)+5 D)+8 E)none of the above

Name: The oxidation number of P in PO 4 3- is: A)-3 B)-5 C)+5 D)+8 E)none of the above
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Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Oxygen has an oxidation number of -2, and there are two oxygen atoms in PO₄^3-, giving a total oxidation number of -4. Since the overall molecule is neutral, the sum of all oxidation numbers must be 0. Therefore, the oxidation number of P can be calculated as +5 to balance out the -4 from the oxygen atoms.

The Oxidation Number of P in PO4 3- Is

The Oxidation Number of P in PO₄^3- Is