Consider this reaction: Mg(s) + 2H20(1) ► Mg(OH)2(s) + H2(9)

What is the oxidation state of Mg in Mg(s)?

Oxidation state for Mg(s) is 0

Explanation:

This is redox reaction, where one element is oxidized and another is reduced.

H from water is being reduced while the Mg which is in ground state is oxidized.

When the element is reduced, the oxidation state is decreased:

2H⁺ + 2e⁻  ⇄  H₂

When the element is oxidized, the oxidation state is increased

Mg ⇄ Mg²⁺ + 2e⁻

As Mg(s) in the product side, is at ground state, the oxidation state is 0.

Any element in ground state has 0, as oxidation state.

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