The maximum oxidation number is theoretically equal to the number of valence electrons. For example the oxidation number of chlorine among different compounds can vary from -1 to +7. An exception for this is fluorine, which only have -1 and 0 as its oxidation numbers.
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Group 1 elements (alkali metals) typically have an oxidation number of +1. Group 2 elements (alkaline earth metals) typically have an oxidation number of +2. Group 3-12 elements (transition metals) can have varying oxidation numbers depending on the compound they are in.
Assigning oxidation numbers helps determine the charge on each element, which is crucial for balancing the overall charge in a chemical formula. It also helps in predicting the behavior of elements during chemical reactions and allows for the correct formation of compounds based on the transfer of electrons.
The oxidation number of manganese depends on the particular compound in which manganese is present. The most common oxidation states are +2 as in MnCl2, + 4 as in MnO2, and + 7 as in potassium permanganate, KMnO4.
Elements on the left side of the periodic table (Groups 1, 2, and 13) typically have positive oxidation numbers since they tend to lose electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration. For example, Group 1 elements like sodium have an oxidation state of +1, while Group 2 elements like magnesium have an oxidation state of +2.
In Na2SeO3, sodium selenosulfate, the oxidation number of Se is +4. Sodium has an oxidation number of +1 and oxygen typically has an oxidation number of -2. By setting up an equation based on the known oxidation numbers for sodium and oxygen, the oxidation number of Se can be calculated as +4 by solving the equation.
The oxidation number is not specifically listed on the periodic table. Oxidation numbers are assigned based on rules and guidelines that depend on the chemical properties and bonding of each element. Different elements can have multiple oxidation states, which can vary depending on the compound or molecule in which they are found.