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11 grade chemistry others

What is the Oxidation number of the metal in Lead Hydroxide?

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11 Months agoGrade
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1 Answer

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ApprovedApproved Tutor Answer11 Months ago

To determine the oxidation number of the metal in lead hydroxide, we first need to analyze its chemical formula, which is Pb(OH)₂.

Identifying Components

In this compound:

  • Lead (Pb) is the metal we are focusing on.
  • Hydroxide (OH) is a polyatomic ion with a charge of -1.

Calculating Oxidation State

Since there are two hydroxide ions in lead hydroxide, their total contribution to the charge is:

2 x (-1) = -2

To balance this charge, the oxidation number of lead must be +2. Therefore, the oxidation number of lead in lead hydroxide is:

Final Answer

+2