oxidation number
Pronunciation
Noun
B2 Upper-intermediate
Quick answer
A number assigned to an atom in a compound that represents how many electrons it has effectively gained or lost compared with its neutral state.
Synonyms and antonyms
Synonyms
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "The _____ of oxygen is almost always minus two, except in a few unusual compounds like peroxides."
Answer: oxidation number
In your own words, what does "oxidation number" mean?
A number assigned to an atom in a compound that represents how many electrons it has effectively gained or lost compared with its neutral state.
Learn next at B2
- oxidation state A number that represents how many electrons an atom has gained, lost,...
- oxidising agent A substance that causes another substance to lose electrons during a c...
- oxymoron A phrase that combines two contradictory words for effect, such as 'de...
- ozone depletion The gradual thinning of the layer of ozone gas in the upper atmosphere...
- pace The speed at which someone or something moves or happens.
- pace To walk back and forth repeatedly, often out of nervousness, or to set...