Question

How to find oxidation stste of phosphorous in 3h3po4-?

Answer 1

Given,

3H3P04-

So,

As we know the oxidation states of oxygen(O)=-2 and hydrogen(H)=+1

let the oxidation state of phosphorus(P) be "x"

so as per given compound,

3(+1) +3(x) + 4(-2)=-1

+3+3(x)-8=-1

3(x)=-1+8-3

3(x)=4

x=4/3

Therefore the oxidation state of phosphorus is 4/3