The oxidation number of chromium in the dichromate ion, Cr2O7 2-, is

Correct answer: C. plus 6

  • A. plus 3
  • B. plus 12
  • C. plus 6
  • D. plus 7

Explanation

Seven oxygens contribute minus 14, and the overall charge is minus 2, so the two chromium atoms must total plus 12, giving plus 6 each. Quoting plus 12 forgets to divide between the two atoms, which is the commonest slip. Acidified dichromate is reduced to the green chromium three ion, and that colour change is used as a test for a reducing agent.

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About Oxidation and Reduction

Oxidation involves loss of electrons, increase in oxidation number or addition of oxygen, while reduction involves electron gain, decrease in oxidation number or removal of oxygen. The topic covers oxidising and reducing agents, oxidation-number changes, redox equations and the distinction between oxidation at the anode and reduction at the cathode.

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