What is the oxidation state of Mn in MnO2?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the oxidation state of manganese (Mn) in the compound manganese dioxide (MnO2). To solve this, we must apply the rules for determining oxidation states, considering that oxygen typically has an oxidation state of -2.
Answer
+4
The oxidation state of Mn in MnO2 is +4.
Answer for screen readers
The oxidation state of Mn in MnO2 is +4.
More Information
The oxygen atoms in MnO2 each have an oxidation state of -2, and with two oxygen atoms, the total oxidation state contribution is -4. For the compound to be neutral, the manganese must balance this with an oxidation state of +4.
Tips
Common mistakes include not correctly calculating the total contribution from the oxygen atoms and misunderstanding that the sum of oxidation states in a neutral compound must be zero.
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