Question

What is the oxidation state of each individual carbon atom in c2o42−?

Answer 1

Answer:

+3

Explanation:

The oxygen all have a -2 oxidation state. (peroxides are exceptions)

The chemical structure is symmetrical. Both carbon are equivalent.

2 (oxidation state of carbon) + 4 (oxidation state of oxygen) = charge of ion.

2 (oxidation state of carbon) + 4 (-2) = -2

oxidation state of carbon = +3

Answer 2

Answer:

+3

Explanation:

Hello,

In this case, by knowing that the molecule has the following oxidation states structure, one can solve for the carbon's oxidation state via the total ion's charge as shown below:

$(C_2^xO_4^{-2})^{2-}\\2x-8=-2\\x=\frac{-2+8}{2}=+3$

Therefore, the carbon's oxidation state is +3

Best regards.