Oxidation Numbers in Compounds

The video tutorial explains how to find the oxidation numbers for hydrogen in lithium hydride. It starts by discussing the concept of oxidation numbers in a neutral compound and explains that lithium, being in group one, has a +1 charge. Therefore, hydrogen must have a -1 charge to balance the compound. The video also demonstrates an algebraic method to determine the oxidation number of hydrogen, confirming the result. The tutorial concludes with a summary of the findings.

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

• It depends on the elements present.

• It is zero.

• It is always positive.

• It is always negative.

What is the oxidation number of lithium in lithium hydride?

• -1

• +2

• 0

• +1

In lithium hydride, what is the oxidation number of hydrogen?

• +2

• -1

• 0

• +1

Why does hydrogen have a negative oxidation number in lithium hydride?

• Because it is in Group 1 of the periodic table.

• Because it is bonded to a metal.

• Because it is bonded to a non-metal.

• Because it is a noble gas.

How can the oxidation number of hydrogen in lithium hydride be determined algebraically?

• By using the periodic table directly.

• By assuming hydrogen is always +1.

• By setting the sum of oxidation numbers to +1.

• By setting the sum of oxidation numbers to zero and solving for hydrogen.

What is the result of solving the algebraic equation for hydrogen's oxidation number in lithium hydride?

• -1

• +1

• 0

• +2