Question

What is the oxidation state exhibited by Boron?

Answer 1

Oxidation state:

• "Oxidation number denotes the oxidation state of an element in a compound ascertained according to a set of rules formulated on the basis that electron pair in a covalent bond belongs entirely to a more electronegative element."

Oxidation state exhibited by Boron

• Boron is an element of group 13.
• The electronic configuration of boron is $1s^{2}2s^{2}2p^1$.
• Boron is less electronegative than even hydrogen.
• Boron exhibits $+3$ oxidation state.
• The atoms of these elements have 3 valence electrons, therefore all these elements show maximum of + 3 oxidation state.