Chemistry
Chemistry
10th Edition
ISBN: 9781305957404
Author: Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste
Publisher: Cengage Learning
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### Determining the Oxidation Number of Phosphorus in H₃PO₄

One of the key concepts in understanding oxidation-reduction reactions is determining the oxidation numbers of elements in a compound. Here, we'll explore how to find the oxidation number of phosphorus in the chemical formula H₃PO₄.

#### Question:
What is the oxidation number of phosphorus in H₃PO₄?

#### Options:
- ⭕ -3
- ⭕ +3
- ⭕ +5
- ⭕ +4

#### Explanation:
1. **Oxidation States and Rules**:
   - The sum of the oxidation numbers of all atoms in a neutral molecule must be zero.
   - Hydrogen (H) typically has an oxidation number of +1.
   - Oxygen (O) typically has an oxidation number of -2.

2. **Determining the Oxidation Number**:
   - Let's denote the oxidation number of phosphorus (P) as \( x \).
   - In H₃PO₄:
     - There are three hydrogen atoms, each with an oxidation number of +1.
     - There are four oxygen atoms, each with an oxidation number of -2.

   The equation based on the sum of oxidation numbers is:
   \[
   3(+1) + x + 4(-2) = 0
   \]

3. **Calculation**:
   - This simplifies to:
     \[
     3(+1) + x + 4(-2) = 0 \\
     3 + x - 8 = 0 \\
     x - 5 = 0 \\
     x = +5
     \]

Therefore, the oxidation number of phosphorus in H₃PO₄ is **+5**.

#### Correct Answer:
- ⭕ +5

Understanding these fundamental calculations is crucial for mastering topics in redox chemistry. This practice problem helps solidify the basic principles behind oxidation states, essential for more advanced studies.
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Transcribed Image Text:### Determining the Oxidation Number of Phosphorus in H₃PO₄ One of the key concepts in understanding oxidation-reduction reactions is determining the oxidation numbers of elements in a compound. Here, we'll explore how to find the oxidation number of phosphorus in the chemical formula H₃PO₄. #### Question: What is the oxidation number of phosphorus in H₃PO₄? #### Options: - ⭕ -3 - ⭕ +3 - ⭕ +5 - ⭕ +4 #### Explanation: 1. **Oxidation States and Rules**: - The sum of the oxidation numbers of all atoms in a neutral molecule must be zero. - Hydrogen (H) typically has an oxidation number of +1. - Oxygen (O) typically has an oxidation number of -2. 2. **Determining the Oxidation Number**: - Let's denote the oxidation number of phosphorus (P) as \( x \). - In H₃PO₄: - There are three hydrogen atoms, each with an oxidation number of +1. - There are four oxygen atoms, each with an oxidation number of -2. The equation based on the sum of oxidation numbers is: \[ 3(+1) + x + 4(-2) = 0 \] 3. **Calculation**: - This simplifies to: \[ 3(+1) + x + 4(-2) = 0 \\ 3 + x - 8 = 0 \\ x - 5 = 0 \\ x = +5 \] Therefore, the oxidation number of phosphorus in H₃PO₄ is **+5**. #### Correct Answer: - ⭕ +5 Understanding these fundamental calculations is crucial for mastering topics in redox chemistry. This practice problem helps solidify the basic principles behind oxidation states, essential for more advanced studies.
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