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What is the oxidation state of C in NaHCO3?
O A. +4
O B. -6
O C. +1
OD. -2

1 Answer

3 votes

Answer: A (+4)

Step-by-step explanation:

The HCO₃ in NaHCO₃ has an oxidation state of -1. We know this because of the charge on HCO₃ and also by the fact that Na is a group 1 metal that always has a +1 oxidation state.

The sum of the oxidation states of the components of HCO₃ has to be equal to -1

⇒ H + C + 3 O = - 1

A rule of redox is that Oxygen always has a - 2 oxidation state and H usually has a + 1 oxidation state

⇒ 1 + C + 3(-2) = - 1 [make C the subject of the equation and simplify]

⇒ C = -1 - 1 + 6

C = + 4

User Jonathan Newton
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