Question

What is the difference between valency and oxidation state

Answer 1

1. Valency is the combining capacity of an element whereas O.N. is the charge on an atom when combined with other atoms.
2. Valency is only a number and does not have +ve or -ve sign whereas ON is a charge and have +ve or -ve sign.
3. Valency can’t be zero whereas ON can be zero. e.g. C in CH2Cl2.
4. Valency is always a whole number whereas ON may not be a whole number. e.g. Fe in Fe3O4 (8/3)