Oxidation number of Fe in Fe2(CO3)2

+2

Explanation:

Oxidation number of an element, also called its oxidation state, is the number of electrons its atoms lost or gain in the process of forming a chemical compound.

To determine the oxidation state of an element or compound;

- The sum of all the oxidation numbers in a neutral compound must equal zero (0).

In the compound: Fe2(CO3)2

This compound is a neutral one, hence, its oxidation state is equal to zero (0).

It contains a polyatomic ion (carbonate ion) i.e. CO3 2-, whose net charge is -2.

Hence, to find the oxidation number of Iron (Fe), which is represented by X, in the compound, we say;

X(2) + -2(2) = 0

2X + -4 = 0

2X - 4 = 0

2X = 4

X = +2

Therefore, the oxidation number of Fe in Fe2(CO3)2 is (+2)

The compound Fe2(CO3)2 is called Iron (II) carbonate

2b2t

explanation:

2b2t