How would you find the oxidation numbers of MgO?

To determine the oxidation numbers in magnesium oxide (MgO), we can follow a straightforward approach based on the known oxidation states of the elements involved.

Identifying Oxidation States

Magnesium (Mg) is an alkaline earth metal, and it typically has an oxidation state of +2. Oxygen (O), on the other hand, usually has an oxidation state of -2.

Steps to Find Oxidation Numbers

• Step 1: Recognize the elements in the compound: Mg and O.
• Step 2: Assign the common oxidation states: Mg = +2, O = -2.
• Step 3: Check the overall charge: In a neutral compound like MgO, the total oxidation states must equal zero.

Calculating the Total Charge

In MgO, the oxidation number of magnesium is +2 and that of oxygen is -2. When you add these together:

+2 (from Mg) + (-2 from O) = 0

This confirms that the oxidation numbers are correctly assigned, as they balance out to zero, which is expected in a neutral compound.

Final Oxidation Numbers

Thus, in magnesium oxide (MgO):

• Magnesium (Mg) has an oxidation number of +2.
• Oxygen (O) has an oxidation number of -2.