Question

Predict the oxidation number of nitrogen in ammonia (${\mathrm{NH}}_3$).

Answer 1

Oxidation Number of Ammonia:

• The oxidation number of an atom is defined as the charge that an atom appears to have on forming ionic bonds with other heteroatoms.
• Ammonia is a colourless gas with a chemical formula ${\mathrm{NH}}_3$. It comprises hydrogen and nitrogen.
• This inorganic compound has a pungent smell. In its concentrated form, it is dangerous.
• The sum of the oxidation numbers is the charge on the ion or molecule. Because ammonia is neutral, the individual oxidation numbers must sum to zero.
• Let x be the oxidation state of nitrogen in ammonia. The oxidation state of hydrogen is $+1$.

$$\begin{gathered} x+3(+1)=0 \\ x+3=0 \\ x=-3 \end{gathered}$$

• Therefore, the oxidation state of nitrogen Is $-3$.