Which atom in the compound K₂C₂O₄ has a positive oxidation state?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In K₂C₂O₄, potassium (K) has a +1 oxidation state because it is an alkali metal and typically has a +1 charge in compounds. Carbon (C) in oxalate (C₂O₄²⁻) has a positive oxidation state due to the overall -2 charge of the oxalate ion, which implies that the carbon atoms must balance the -8 from the four oxygen atoms (each typically -2) to achieve the -2 overall charge. Oxygen (O) has a -2 oxidation state. Therefore, both potassium and carbon have positive oxidation states.

Which Atom in the Compound K₂C₂O₄ Has a Positive Oxidation