The oxidation number of phosphorus in \(PO_4^{3-}\) is
- + 1
- +2
- +3
- +4
-
+5
The correct answer is: E
Explanation
The oxidation number of phosphorus in \(PO_4^{3-}\) is calculated as follow;
\(PO_4\) = -3
but oxidation number of oxygen = -2
P + (-2 x 4) = - 3
P - 8 = -3
P = -3 + 8 = +5
\(\therefore\) the oxidation number of phosphorus in \(PO_4^{3-}\) = + 5.