What is the sum of the oxidation numbers in a neutral compound?

JAMB Chemistry 2023 154 views
Source: JAMB · 2023

What is the sum of the oxidation numbers in a neutral compound?

  1. 0 ✓
  2. +1
  3. -1
  4. +2
Explanation

Neutral compounds have zero total charge. All oxidation numbers must add to zero. Positive and negative charges cancel out.

Ions have charges of +1, -1, or +2. Neutral compounds have no charge. This is a basic chemistry rule.

Remember: In H₂O, hydrogen is +1 each and oxygen is -2. Total: (+1 × 2) + (-2) = 0.

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