What is the oxidation state of a free element? Of a monoatomic ion?

When exploring the concept of free elements, we understand that these are elements in their purest, uncombined form, like the noble gases or the elemental molecules of nitrogen (\( N_2 \)) or oxygen (\( O_2 \)). In this most fundamental state, each atom within the element is bonded to an identical atom, meaning there is no net gain or loss of electrons.

As a result, the oxidation state of a free element is thus always 0. This is an essential rule in the realm of chemical reactions and stoichiometry, as it sets the baseline for understanding more complex structures where electrons might be transferred between different atoms, resulting in various oxidation states.

On the other hand, when we consider a monoatomic ion, we're referring to a single atom that has either lost or gained electrons. This loss or gain is what we call electron transfer, and it leads to the formation of ions. For example, a sodium atom (\( Na \)) that loses one electron will become a sodium ion (\( Na^+ \)), with a +1 charge.

The oxidation state of a monoatomic ion directly aligns with its charge. If an atom loses electrons, it becomes positively charged and has a positive oxidation state. If an atom gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged and has a negative oxidation state. The number of electrons lost or gained is numerically equal to the oxidation state of the monoatomic ion.

The electron transfer is a core concept in chemistry that underpins the change in oxidation states during chemical reactions. It’s essentially the movement of electrons from one atom to another. This can occur as part of a redox reaction, where oxidation (loss of electrons) and reduction (gain of electrons) happen simultaneously.

When an atom undergoes electron transfer, it either becomes an ion if it is by itself, or it alters the chemical charge balance within a molecule if it is bonded to other atoms. The ability of an atom to gain or lose electrons turns out to be fundamental in predicting the behavior of elements during reactions and in forming compounds.

Finally, let’s dissect the concept of chemical charge. This term refers to the electrical charge an atom has due to the loss or gain of electrons. Atoms aim to achieve stability through full valence shells, typically resembling the electron configuration of a noble gas. To achieve this, they often share, lose, or gain electrons, resulting in the formation of ions or the establishment of covalent bonds.

The chemical charge of an ion represents its oxidation state and is a crucial parameter in writing chemical formulae correctly. Positive or negative signs on an ion reflect its chemical charge and help chemists understand how different atoms can combine to form stable structures or how they might interact in a chemical environment.