What is the primary oxidation state of nitrogen in ammonia (NH3)? (2021)

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Question: What is the primary oxidation state of nitrogen in ammonia (NH3)? (2021)

Options:

Correct Answer: -3

Exam Year: 2021

Solution:

In ammonia, nitrogen has an oxidation state of -3.

What is the primary oxidation state of nitrogen in ammonia (NH3)? (2021)

What is the primary oxidation state of nitrogen in ammonia (NH3)? (2021)

Step 1: Identify the chemical formula of ammonia, which is NH3.
Step 2: Recognize that in NH3, nitrogen (N) is bonded to three hydrogen (H) atoms.
Step 3: Know that hydrogen typically has an oxidation state of +1.
Step 4: Calculate the total oxidation state contributed by the three hydrogen atoms: 3 H atoms × +1 = +3.
Step 5: Since the overall charge of ammonia is neutral (0), the oxidation state of nitrogen must balance the +3 from hydrogen.
Step 6: Set up the equation: Oxidation state of N + Total oxidation state of H = 0.
Step 7: Substitute the known values: Oxidation state of N + 3 = 0.
Step 8: Solve for the oxidation state of nitrogen: Oxidation state of N = -3.

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