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Question

Predict the oxidation number of nitrogen in ammonia (NH3).


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Solution

Oxidation Number of Ammonia:

  • The oxidation number of an atom is defined as the charge that an atom appears to have on forming ionic bonds with other heteroatoms.
  • Ammonia is a colourless gas with a chemical formula NH3. It comprises hydrogen and nitrogen.
  • This inorganic compound has a pungent smell. In its concentrated form, it is dangerous.
  • The sum of the oxidation numbers is the charge on the ion or molecule. Because ammonia is neutral, the individual oxidation numbers must sum to zero.
  • Let x be the oxidation state of nitrogen in ammonia. The oxidation state of hydrogen is +1.

x+3(+1)=0x+3=0x=3

  • Therefore, the oxidation state of nitrogen Is -3.

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