Dichromate has an overall charge of -2. We know oxygen has a -2 charge and, with 7 oxygen atoms present, contributes a charge of -14. This means we need +12 to reach a net charge of -2. There are 2 Cr present so each has an oxidation state of 6+. The cr on the product side is cr^3+. Now looking at the ethyl alcohol... the overall charge is 0. Each H contributes +1, and the o contributes 2- The 4- difference is split over two carbons results in an oxidation state of 2-. The oxidation state of carbon in carbon dioxide is 4+. Practice this calculation. Did you arrive at 4+?
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Related questions
Oxidation states are important for keeping track of electrons in oxidation-reduction reactions. Here are some general rules to remember:
| Neutral compounds In a neutral compound, the sum of the oxidation states is zero. Note that the sign of the oxidation states and the number of atoms associated with each oxidation state must be considered. In H2O, for example, each hydrogen atom has an oxidation state of +1 and each oxygen atom has an oxidation state of ?2 for a total of 2(+1)+(?2)=0. Part A What is the oxidation state of an individual carbon atom in CaCO3? Express the oxidation state numerically (e.g., +1). SubmitHintsMy AnswersGive UpReview Part Part B What is the oxidation state of an individual nitrogen atom in HNO3? Express the oxidation state numerically (e.g., +1). SubmitHintsMy AnswersGive UpReview Part Ions In an ion, the sum of the oxidation states is equal to the overall ionic charge. Note that the sign of the oxidation states and the number of atoms associated with each oxidation state must be considered. In OH?, for example, the oxygen atom has an oxidation state of ?2 and the hydrogen atom has an oxidation state of +1, for a total of (?2)+(+1)=?1. Part C What is the oxidation state of an individual sulfur atom in SO32?? Express the oxidation state numerically (e.g., +1). SubmitHintsMy AnswersGive UpReview Part Part D What is the oxidation state of each individual carbon atom in C2O42?? Express the oxidation state numerically (e.g., +1). |