Chapter 4, Problem 4.53P

a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Oxidation number of phosphorus in ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{P}}_{\text{2}}{\text{O}}_7^{2-}$ is to be determined.

Concept introduction:Oxidation is loss of electrons while gain of electrons is called reduction.

Formal charge that can be obtained by atom if all bonds attached to it are broken in heterolytic manner is called oxidation number. It can be zero, negative or positive but can never be fractional.

b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Oxidation number of phosphorus in ${\text{PH}}_4^{+}$ is to be determined.

Concept introduction:Oxidation is loss of electrons while gain of electrons is called reduction.

Formal charge that can be obtained by atom if all bonds attached to it are broken in heterolytic manner is called oxidation number. It can be zero, negative or positive but can never be fractional.

c)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Oxidation number of phosphorus in ${\text{PCl}}_5$ is to be determined.

Concept introduction:Oxidation is loss of electrons while gain of electrons is called reduction.

Formal charge that can be obtained by atom if all bonds attached to it are broken in heterolytic manner is called oxidation number. It can be zero, negative or positive but can never be fractional.