Oxidation Number (2.0)

Chemistry Level 2

Cr $O_{5}$ is a molecule that possess a shape similar to the shape of a butterfly, knowing this, the oxidation number of this compound is n

In the molecule K $O_{2}$ , oxygen is said to have an oxidation state of m

Find the value of 2 n + 2 m

18 11 12 Cannot be determined

1 solution

Vitthal Yellambalse
Jul 20, 2015

Cr $O_{5}$ :

In this molecule Chromium is the central atom.

It has four oxygen bonded to it through peroxide linkage, the other oxygen atom has a normal double bond to the central atom.

Let oxidation number of Cr be x , x + 4(-1) + (-2) = 0

Implying n = 6

K $O_{2}$ :

Potassium Superoxide contains a $K^{+}$ and a negative $O_{2}$ ion.

Implying charge on $O_{2}$ ion is (-1)

Let oxidation number be m , 2( m ) = -1

Implying m = -0.5

So, 2(6) + 2(-0.5) = 12-1 = 11