Oxidation Numbers in Hg2Cl2

This video tutorial explains how to find the oxidation numbers for mercury in Hg2Cl2, also known as mercury(I) chloride. It begins by noting that the compound is neutral, meaning the oxidation numbers must sum to zero. Since mercury is a transition metal, its oxidation number is determined by its bonding with chlorine, which is typically -1. The video demonstrates that each chlorine contributes -1, resulting in a total of -2. To balance this, mercury must have a total oxidation number of +2, achieved by each mercury having an oxidation number of +1. The tutorial concludes with a summary of the oxidation numbers for each element in the compound.

What is the overall charge of the compound Hg2Cl2?

• Negative

• Neutral

• Depends on the environment

• Positive

Which group does chlorine belong to, and what is its usual oxidation number?

• Group 18, 0

• Group 15, -3

• Group 17, -1

• Group 16, -2

How do you determine the oxidation number of mercury in Hg2Cl2?

• By looking at its position in the periodic table

• By considering its bond with chlorine

• By checking its color

• By assuming it is always +2

What is the oxidation number of each chlorine atom in Hg2Cl2?

• +2

• -1

• +1

• 0

What must be the oxidation number of each mercury atom in Hg2Cl2 to balance the compound?

• +1

• -1

• +2

• 0