What is the average oxidation number of Cu in the 1-2-3 superconductor YBa₂Cu₃O₇ if Y is in the +3 oxidation state? A)+2 B)+2.33 C)+0.67 D)+4.33

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the formula, the total oxidation number contributed by all the elements should be 0 since the compound is neutral.

Y (in +3 state) contributes +3.

B, S, and O have a fixed oxidation number of +3, -2, and -2, respectively.

Thus, we have:

3(+1) + 2x + 12(-2) + 2x + (-2) + 17(-2) + (-2) = 0

where x is the unknown oxidation state of Cu.

Solving for x gives:

x = +2.33

Therefore, the average oxidation number of Cu is +2.33, which is closest to choice B (+2.33).

What Is the Average Oxidation Number of Cu in the 1-2-3