If a polyatomic ion contains a -3 charge, what is the sum of oxidation numbers for that ion?

Prepare for the ACS Organic Chemistry Test with multiple choice questions and comprehensive explanations. Utilize flashcards for quick learning and gain confidence for your exam day!

Multiple Choice

If a polyatomic ion contains a -3 charge, what is the sum of oxidation numbers for that ion?

Explanation:
Oxidation numbers inside a polyatomic ion add up to the ion’s overall charge. If the ion carries a -3 charge, the sum of all the oxidation states must be -3. So the total oxidation-number sum is -3. A sum of 0 would mean a neutral species, +3 would indicate an overall positive ion, and -1 would correspond to a singly negatively charged ion with charge -1.

Oxidation numbers inside a polyatomic ion add up to the ion’s overall charge. If the ion carries a -3 charge, the sum of all the oxidation states must be -3. So the total oxidation-number sum is -3. A sum of 0 would mean a neutral species, +3 would indicate an overall positive ion, and -1 would correspond to a singly negatively charged ion with charge -1.

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