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Chapter 17: Problem 15

Assign oxidation numbers to the atoms in the ion \(\mathrm{PF}_{6}^{-}(a q) .\)

Short Answer

Expert verified
The oxidation numbers of the Atoms in the ion \(\mathrm{PF}_{6}^{-}\) are: P is +5, and each F is -1.

Step by step solution

01

Assign Oxidation Number to Oxygen

The oxidation number of Fluorine (F) is always -1 in compounds.
02

Determine Total Oxidation Number from Fluorine Atoms

As there are 6 Fluorine atoms in the ion, the total oxidation number from Fluorine is \(-1 \times 6 = -6\) .
03

Determine Oxidation Number for Phosphorus

Considering the ion \(\mathrm{PF}_{6}^{-}\) as a whole, its overall charge is -1. Thus, the oxidation state of Phosphorus (P) can be determined by equating the total charge of the ion to the sum of oxidation states of Phosphorus and Fluorine. Let the oxidation state of Phosphorus be \(x\). Then, \(x + (-6) = -1\). Solving for \(x\), we have \(x = -1 + 6 = 5\). Hence, the oxidation state of Phosphorus is +5.

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