Oxidation number of nitrogen in NO3-1 is:

Correct answer: D. +5

  • A. +2
  • B. +6
  • C. +4
  • D. +5

Explanation

In the nitrate ion, NO3-1, each oxygen atom has an oxidation number of -2. The total contribution from three oxygen atoms is -6. To achieve the overall charge of -1 for the ion, nitrogen must have an oxidation number of +5. This is because +5 combined with -6 results in the -1 charge of the ion.Options +2, +4, and +6 are incorrect as they do not satisfy the charge balance required for NO3-1, which must sum to -1.

Written and checked by , M.Phil ChemistryLast updated
Report an error

The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.

Prefer email? [email protected]

About Electrochemistry

Electrochemistry describes electron transfer through oxidation and reduction, identifies oxidizing and reducing agents, and applies oxidation numbers to balance redox equations. It also covers electrode potential and the standard hydrogen electrode, which provides the reference for comparing the reduction tendencies of other electrodes.

Practise Electrochemistry

696 free Electrochemistry MCQs from Chemistry, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Discussion

Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.

No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.

Exams that ask Chemistry questions like this

Chemistry is on 14 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

More Electrochemistry questions