What is the oxidation state of chromium in potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7)?

What is the oxidation state of chromium in potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7)?

Step 1: Identify the chemical formula of potassium dichromate, which is K2Cr2O7.
Step 2: Recognize that potassium (K) has an oxidation state of +1.
Step 3: Since there are 2 potassium atoms, the total contribution from potassium is 2 * +1 = +2.
Step 4: Oxygen (O) typically has an oxidation state of -2. There are 7 oxygen atoms, so the total contribution from oxygen is 7 * -2 = -14.
Step 5: Let the oxidation state of chromium (Cr) be x. There are 2 chromium atoms, so their total contribution is 2x.
Step 6: Set up the equation based on the overall charge of the compound, which is neutral (0): 2x + 2 - 14 = 0.
Step 7: Simplify the equation: 2x - 12 = 0.
Step 8: Solve for x: 2x = 12, so x = 12 / 2 = +6.
Step 9: Conclude that the oxidation state of chromium in potassium dichromate is +6.

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