Question

LT.3c - REDOX - QUESTION 1What is the oxidation state of the nitrogen in Na3NO2?

Answer 1

INFORMATION:

We have the next compound:

`Na_3NO_2`

And we must find the oxidation state of the nitrogen.

STEP BY STEP EXPLANATION:

To find the oxidation state of an element, we need to use the next general rules

Now, using that in a neutral compound all oxidation numbers must add up to zero we have the next equation

`oxidation\text{ }state\text{ }Na+oxidation\text{ }state\text{ }N+oxidation\text{ }state\text{ }O=0`

Then, since the Na is on the group one of the periodic table, Na has a plus one oxidation number and for Oxygen is -2. So,

Oxidation state Na = number of Na in the compound(oxidation number) = 3(+1) = +3

Oxidation state N = x (we don't know it yet)

Oxidation state O = number of O in the compound(oxidation number) = 2(-2) = -4

Finally, replacing in the equation and solving for x

`\begin{gathered} +3+x-4=0 \\ \text{ Solving for x,} \\ x-4=-3 \\ x=-3+4 \\ x=+1 \end{gathered}`

ANSWER:

The oxidation state of the nitrogen in Na3NO2 is +1