Question

What is the oxidation number of P in PF6^-

Answer 1

Answer:

The answer is: +5.

Explanation:

PF6 ^ - >>> P (+5) F (-1) 6-

Element:                    P  F

Oxidation Number: +5  -1

The answer is: +5.

Answer 2

F can only have oxidation number of -1
The overall compound has an oxidation number of -1
You have 6 Fs, so 6(-1) = -6
charge from F
 X = oxidation number of P
 x + (-6) = -1
solve for
x = +5