REDOX Reactions and Oxidation Numbers

Vocabulary flashcards based on the lecture notes covering REDOX reaction terms, charge notation styles, and oxidation state rules.

Oxidizing Agent

The substance in a REDOX reaction that is reduced (anion) because it oxidizes the other substance.

Reducing Agent

The substance in a REDOX reaction that is oxidized (cation) because it reduces the other substance.

Valence Charge Notation

Written by putting the number first, followed by the $+$ or $-$ sign (e.g., $Na^+$ or $Fe^{3+}$).

Oxidation Number Notation

Written by putting the $+$ or $-$ sign first, followed by the number (e.g., $+4$).

Oxidation Number Rule for Hydrogen

Hydrogen is always $+1$, unless it is in a metal hydride ($MH$), in which case it is $-1$.

Oxidation Number Rule for Oxygen

Oxygen is always $-2$, unless it is the peroxide ion ($O_2^{2-}$).

Oxidation Number Rule for Group 1 and Group 7

Group 1 and Group 7 atoms always have the same oxidation number as their valence charge.

Oxidation Number Rule for Neutral Compounds

Oxidation numbers must always total zero in a neutral compound.

Oxidation Number Rule for Polyatomic Ions

Oxidation numbers must always total the overall charge in a polyatomic ion.