Chemistry Examples Molecules and Compounds

Find the Oxidation Numbers

$M g C O_{3}$

Step 1

Since $M g$ is in column $2$ of the periodic table, it will share $2$ electrons and use an oxidation state of $2$ .

$M g = 1 (2) = 2$

Step 2

Since $O$ is in column $6$ of the periodic table, it will share $6$ electrons and use an oxidation state of $6$ .

$O = 3 (- 2) = - 6$

Step 3

To find the oxidation state of $C$ , set up an equation of each oxidation state found earlier and set it equal to $0$ .

$2 - 6 + 1 x = 0$

Step 4

Solve the equation for $x$ .

Tap for more steps...

Step 4.1

Simplify $2 + - 6 + 1 x$ .

Tap for more steps...

Step 4.1.1

Multiply $x$ by $1$ .

$2 + - 6 + x = 0$

Step 4.1.2

Add $2$ and $- 6$ .

$- 4 + x = 0$

Step 4.2

Add $4$ to both sides of the equation.

$x = 4$

Step 5

$C$ is using an oxidation state of $4$ .

$4$

Step 6

This is the full list of oxidation states for this molecule.

$M g = 2, O = - 6, C = 4$

Enter YOUR Problem

How to Use Step-by-Step Examples

Read the worked problem

Each example starts from a real Chemistry problem and shows the rule or formula it relies on.

Follow every step

Work through the solution line by line. Underlined terms open a glossary definition.

Solve your own problem

Enter a similar problem in the Chemistry solver to get the answer with steps.

Why use Mathway?

Step-by-step solutions

See how every answer is worked out, not just the result.

Every major math subject

From basic math through calculus, statistics and chemistry.

Accurate results

Answers you can check your homework against.

Trusted by students

A reliable tool for homework and learning.

Find the Oxidation Numbers

Molecules and Compounds

How to Use Step-by-Step Examples

Why use Mathway?

Explore More Chemistry Help