Question

The oxidation number of C in $C{H}_{2}O$ is ______. (IIT-JEE, 1983)

• A. -2
• B. 2
• C. 4

Answer 1

The correct option is C. 0
An oxidation number is a number that is assigned to an atom in a substance. The oxidation number could be positive, negative, or zero, and it indicates if electrons are lost or gained.

Net charge on $C{H}_{2}O$ = (O.S. of carbon) (no. of atoms of carbon) + (O.S. of hydrogen) (no. of atoms of hydrogen) + (O.S. of oxygen) (no. of atoms of oxygen)

0= (x) (1) + (+1) (2) +(−2 )(1)

0= x + 2 − 2

0 = x
Therefore oxidation number of C in $C{H}_{2}O$ is 0