What is the oxidation number of phosphorus in H3PO4? O-3 O +3 O +5 O +4

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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.
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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