What is the oxidation state of each element in #Mn(NO_3)_2#?

1 Answer
Mar 5, 2017

#stackrel(+II)(Mn)#, #stackrel(+V)(N)#, #stackrel(-II)(O)#,

Explanation:

The sum of the oxidation numbers is equal to the charge of the ion. Here, we have a neutral salt, and thus the sum of the oxidation numbers is #0#.

The salt derives from #Mn^(2+)#, and from 2 equiv #NO_3^-#. With respect to nitrate anion, the oxidation number of oxygen is generally #-II#, and it is here. Nitrogen is fully oxidized in the #+V# state.