Chapter 19, Problem 48A

Interpretation Introduction

(a)

Interpretation:

The oxidation number of $N$ in $N{O}_3{}^{-}$ needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Oxidation number is defined as charge the atom would have if electrons are not shared but transfer completely.

Answer to Problem 48A

+5

Explanation of Solution

The charge on O atom is -2.

The oxidation number of $N$ is calculated as:

$\begin{array}{c}x+\left(-2\times 3\right)=-1\\ x-6=-1\\ x-5=0\\ x=5\end{array}$

Interpretation Introduction

(b)

Interpretation:

The oxidation number of $N$ in $N{O}_2$ needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Oxidation number: It is defined as charge the atom would have if electrons are not shared but transfer completely.

Answer to Problem 48A

+4

Explanation of Solution

The charge on O atom is -2.

The oxidation number of $N$ is calculated as:

$\begin{array}{c}x+\left(-2\times 2\right)=0\\ x-4=0\\ x=4\end{array}$

Interpretation Introduction

(c)

Interpretation:

The oxidation number of N in $N{F}_3$ needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Oxidation number: It is defined as charge the atom would have if electrons are not shared but transfer completely.

Answer to Problem 48A

+3

Explanation of Solution

The charge on F is -1.

The oxidation number of N is calculated as:

$\begin{array}{c}x+(-1\times 3)=0\\ x-3=0\\ x=3\end{array}$