Oxidation Numbers in Compounds

This video tutorial explains how to determine the oxidation numbers for each element in lithium carbonate (Li2CO3). It begins by identifying the compound as neutral, meaning the sum of oxidation numbers equals zero. Lithium, being in group one, has a +1 oxidation number. Oxygen is typically -2. Carbon's oxidation number is unknown and represented as x. An equation is set up to solve for x, resulting in carbon having a +4 oxidation number. The video concludes by verifying that the sum of all oxidation numbers equals zero.

What is the overall charge of lithium carbonate?

• Variable

• Positive

• Negative

• Neutral

What is the oxidation number of lithium in lithium carbonate?

• 0

• +2

• +1

• -1

Which element's oxidation number is unknown and represented by 'x' in the equation?

• Lithium

• Hydrogen

• Carbon

• Oxygen

What is the typical oxidation number assigned to oxygen in compounds?

• -1

• -2

• 0

• +1

How many oxygen atoms are present in lithium carbonate?

• 4

• 3

• 2

• 1

What is the oxidation number of carbon in lithium carbonate after solving the equation?

• +5

• +4

• +3

• +2

What should the sum of all oxidation numbers in a neutral compound be?

• Negative

• Zero

• Depends on the compound

• Positive