Give the chemical formula for each of the following compounds, and indicate the oxidation state of the group 5A element: (a) Nitrous oxide (b) Hydrazine (c) Calcium phosphide (d) Phosphorous acid (e) Arsenic acid.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the chemical formula for each compound. For nitrous oxide, the formula is \( N_2O \). For hydrazine, the formula is \( N_2H_4 \). For calcium phosphide, the formula is \( Ca_3P_2 \). For phosphorous acid, the formula is \( H_3PO_3 \). For arsenic acid, the formula is \( H_3AsO_4 \).
2. Step 2: Determine the oxidation state of the group 5A element in nitrous oxide \( N_2O \). Assume the oxidation state of oxygen is \(-2\) and solve for nitrogen.
3. Step 3: Determine the oxidation state of the group 5A element in hydrazine \( N_2H_4 \). Assume the oxidation state of hydrogen is \(+1\) and solve for nitrogen.
4. Step 4: Determine the oxidation state of the group 5A element in calcium phosphide \( Ca_3P_2 \). Assume the oxidation state of calcium is \(+2\) and solve for phosphorus.
5. Step 5: Determine the oxidation state of the group 5A element in phosphorous acid \( H_3PO_3 \) and arsenic acid \( H_3AsO_4 \). Assume the oxidation state of hydrogen is \(+1\) and oxygen is \(-2\), then solve for phosphorus and arsenic respectively.

Key Concepts

Oxidation States

Oxidation states, or oxidation numbers, indicate the degree of oxidation of an atom in a compound. They help in understanding electron transfer during chemical reactions. For elements in group 5A, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, the oxidation state can vary based on the compound's structure and bonding, influencing the compound's reactivity and properties.

Chemical Formulas

A chemical formula represents the composition of a compound, showing the types and numbers of atoms present. For example, nitrous oxide is represented as N2O, indicating two nitrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. Understanding how to derive and interpret chemical formulas is essential for identifying compounds and their properties.

Group 5A Elements

Group 5A elements, also known as the nitrogen group, include nitrogen, phosphorus, arsenic, antimony, and bismuth. These elements exhibit varying oxidation states and can form a range of compounds, such as acids and oxides. Recognizing their common oxidation states and typical compounds is crucial for predicting chemical behavior and reactivity.