Question

The sum of the oxidation states for all elements in a polyatomic ion is

a. nil

b. all of the above

c. sum of the atomic in the respective constituent elements of the polyatomic ion

d. the numerical charge on the polyatomic ion

Answer 1

Correct option is d. the numerical charge on the polyatomic ion

For a polyatomic ion (an ion that is composed of more than one atom), the total oxidation number will sum to the charge on the ion. This principle is the same for any molecule, as well. The total oxidation state should be equal to the charge on that molecule.