19.1 How to Assign Oxidation Numbers

1. Elements in their elemental form are in the zero oxidation state.

2. Group 1 metals are +1 and Group 2 metals are +2.

3. Hydrogen is +1 except when bonded to a metal only (when it’s –1).

4. Transition elements must be determined from anion’s charge

    (except Al = +3, Zn = +2, Cd = +2, Ag = +1)

5. The most electronegative elements get their typical oxidation state.

6. The last element not assigned balances the charge of the compound/ion.