Question

The oxidation state shown by silicon when it combines with strongly electropositive metals is​

• A. $+2$
• B. $-2$
• C. $-4$
• D. $+4$

Answer 1

The correct option is C $-4$

Silicon combines with strongly electropositive metals like $Na,K,Mg$ and formation of silicide takes place.

In these silicide, silicon shows oxidation state of $-4$ .

Example: Axinite is a type of cyclosilicate which have chemical formula $(Ca,Fe,Mn{)}_{3}A{l}_2(B{O}_3\left)\right(S{i}_4{O}_{12})OH$