Question

The lowest possible oxidation state of nitrogen is $-3$ as in $N^{3-}$.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Ambiguous
• D. None of these

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

True

The lowest possible oxidation state of nitrogen is $-3$ as in $N^{3-}$.

Nitrogen can form compounds in which oxidation state ranges from $-3$ to $+5$.

Ammonia, $N{H}_3$ and magnesium nitride, $M{g}_3{N}_2$ have N in $-3$ oxidation state.

N has $5$ valence electrons. It accepts $3$ electrons to complete its octet.

Thus, it shows $-3$ oxidation state.