Question

What is the oxidation number of each phosphorus atom in H4P2O7

Answer 1

Answer:

+5

Explanation:

The oxidation number of phosphorus can be obtained as follows:

H4P2O7 = 0

4(+1) + 2P + 7(—2) = 0

4 + 2P —14 = 0

Collect like terms

2P = 14 — 4

2P = 10

Divide both side by 2

P = 10/2

P = +5

The oxidation number of phosphorus is +5