1. Assign Oxidation States to Known Elements:
* Hydrogen: Usually has an oxidation state of +1, except when bonded to metals (like in hydrides).
* Oxygen: Usually has an oxidation state of -2, except in peroxides.
2. Set up the Equation:
Let the oxidation state of nitrogen be represented by "x". The sum of the oxidation states of all atoms in a neutral molecule must equal zero.
x + 2(+1) + (-2) + (+1) = 0
3. Solve for x:
x + 2 - 2 + 1 = 0
x + 1 = 0
x = -1
Therefore, the oxidation state of nitrogen in NH₂OH is -1.
