Question

Litharge, PbO, is an ore that can be roasted (heated) in the presence of carbon monoxide, CO, to produce elemental lead. This is the balanced equation: PbO(s) + CO(g) --> Pb(s) + CO_2(g)

What is the oxidation number of lead in litharge.

Answer 1

+2

Step-by-step explanation:

The balanced equation for the reaction is given below:

PbO(s) + CO(g) —> Pb(s) + CO2(g)

The oxidation number of lead (Pb) in Litharge, PbO can be obtained as follow:

PbO = 0.. (Since oxidation number of a compound is zero)

Pb + O = 0

O = –2

Pb =..?

Pb – 2 = 0

Collect like terms

Pb = +2

Therefore, the oxidation number lead (Pb) in Litharge, PbO is +2