Multiple Choice
Which of the following species contains manganese with the highest oxidation number?
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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 phosphorus in LiH2PO4?
A
+3
B
+1
C
-3
D
+5
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the overall charge of the compound LiH2PO4, which is neutral (0 charge).
Assign known oxidation numbers to the other atoms: lithium (Li) is +1, hydrogen (H) is usually +1 when bonded to nonmetals, and oxygen (O) is usually -2.
Set up an equation for the sum of oxidation numbers in the compound: the sum must equal zero because the compound is neutral.
Let the oxidation number of phosphorus (P) be x. Then, write the equation: +1 (Li) + 2(+1) (H) + x (P) + 4(-2) (O) = 0.
Solve the equation for x to find the oxidation number of phosphorus.
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