Oxidation Number Calculator
Determine oxidation states of elements in compounds
Table of Contents
How to Use
- Enter the element symbol
- Enter the number of atoms of that element
- Enter total charge of the compound
- Enter the sum of known oxidation states
- Click Calculate to find the oxidation number
What is Oxidation Number?
An oxidation number represents the charge an atom would have if all bonds were ionic. It's used to track electron transfer in redox reactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are common oxidation states?
- Hydrogen is usually +1, oxygen is usually -2, alkali metals are +1, and alkaline earth metals are +2. Halogens are typically -1.
- How do I determine oxidation numbers?
- Use oxidation rules and ensure the sum of all oxidation numbers equals the overall charge of the compound or ion.