Question

What is the oxidation number of $Zn$ in the following molecule:
$Zn{O}_2^{2-}$

• A. $-1$
• B. $+3$
• C. $+1$
• D. $+2$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $+2$

Let oxidation number of Zn be 'x' in $Zn{O}_2^{2-}$
$\text{charge on}O=-2$
$\text{Total charge on species}=-2$
$\therefore x+2\times -2=-2$
$\Rightarrow x=+2$