What is the oxidation state of carbon in CO3^2-?

Understand the Problem

The question is asking for the oxidation state of the carbon atom in the carbonate ion (CO3^2-). To find this, we can use the concept of oxidation states and the known charges of oxygen in compounds.

More Information

To determine the oxidation state of carbon in CO3^2-: let the oxidation number of carbon be x. Each oxygen has an oxidation state of -2. The carbonate ion has three oxygen atoms and a total charge of -2. The equation becomes x + 3*(-2) = -2, solving for x gives x = +4.

Tips

A common mistake is forgetting to account for the overall charge of the ion when calculating the oxidation state.

Sources

• What is the oxidation number of carbon in the ion (CO3)2-? | Socratic - socratic.org
• Determine the oxidation number of carbon in CO32 - homework.study.com