Question

What is the oxidation number of Si (silicon)?

Answer 1

Elemental silicon has a formal oxidation state of `0`.

Explanation:

Of course, silicon IN ITS COMPOUNDS, as a carbon analogue, usually has an oxidation state of `+IV`.

I use the formal definition of oxidation state/number: `"the charge left on the central atom, when all the bonding"` `"electrons are removed with the charge retained by the "` `"more electronegative atom"`.

As the element, `Si` has neither donated nor accepted electrons, and therefore it is zerovalent; i.e. it has a formal `0` oxidation state. What is the oxidation state of silicon in `SiF_4`; in `SiH_4`; in `Si(CH_3)_4??`