Multiple Choice
In the compound CH3COOH (acetic acid), what are the oxidation states of the carbon atoms labeled as (i) in the methyl group (CH3-) and (ii) in the carboxyl group (-COOH)?
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6. Chemical Quantities & Aqueous Reactions
Calculate Oxidation Numbers
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What is the oxidation number of each vanadium atom in V2O5?
A
+2.5
B
+2
C
+4
D
+5
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the overall formula of the compound, which is \(\mathrm{V_2O_5}\), meaning there are 2 vanadium atoms and 5 oxygen atoms.
Recall that oxygen almost always has an oxidation number of \(-2\) in compounds (except in peroxides or when bonded to fluorine).
Calculate the total oxidation number contributed by oxygen atoms: since there are 5 oxygen atoms, total oxidation from oxygen is \$5 \times (-2) = -10$.
Let the oxidation number of each vanadium atom be \(x\). Since there are 2 vanadium atoms, their total oxidation number is \$2x$.
Set up the equation for the sum of oxidation numbers in a neutral compound: \$2x + (-10) = 0\(. Solve for \)x$ to find the oxidation number of each vanadium atom.
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