General Rules In a neutral compound all oxidation numbers must add up to zero. In an ion the all oxidation numbers must add up to the charge on the ion. Free elements have an oxidation number of zero (e.g. Na, Fe, H2, O2, Ss). Fluorine = -1 Group1=+1 Group2=+2 Hydrogen with Non-Metals = +1 Hydrogen with Metals (or Boron) = -1 Oxygen = -2 (except with Fluorine or Peroxides) Group 17(7A)= -1 Group 16(6A)=-2 Group 15 (5A) = eo eee eee Balancing of Redox Reaction : Oxidation Number Method * Write formula for each reactant and product + Identify atoms which undergo change in oxidation number in the reaction cent. ato * Calculate the increase or decrease in the oxidation number per atom. If these are not equal then multiply by suitable cgefficients so” That these become equal. * Ifthe reaction is taking place i ions to the expression on the appropriate side so that the tot tants and products are equal. If solutic the reaction is cared out in aci : updos in the equation; if in basic solution, us(OH" jpns. + Make the numbers of atoms in the expression on the two sides equal by adding water (H,0) molecules to the reactants or products. Now, also check the number of Oxygen atoms. Sop E2AM ‘No more fear em Exam * Memory tip: Ox consume water (H,0)