Which statement best describes the primary limitation of oxidation state (or oxi

Question

Which statement best describes the primary limitation of oxidation state (or oxidation number)?

In molecules, electrons are not just in atomic orbitals. They are also in molecular orbitals. Therefore, oxidation states (or numbers) do not necessarily represent the electron reality for each atom.

Oxidation numbers attempt to account for where electrons are in a molecule.

Oxidation states attempt to assign electrons to atoms in a molecule.

Oxidation states (or numbers) are affected by electronegativity differences between atoms.

Explanation / Answer

Oxidation state corresponding to particular atom. It does not belong over all molecule.

prticular atom loses or gains electrons to get oxidation state.

Oxidation state exist in molecule whre the molecules have atoms with greater electronegativity difference. If the electronegativity difference between two atoms in molecule is less then covalent bond is formed and there is no chance to existance of oxidation state.

If the electronegativity difference between atoms is more then ionic bond is formed and oxidation states exist on atoms.

Example: In CH4 electronegativity difference between C and H is small and covalent bond is formed between C and H. There is no charge on any atom.

In NaCl electronegativity difference between Na and Cl is large and they will form ionic bond. Then Na has +1 oxidation state and Cl has -1 oxidation state.

Best statement is

Oxidation states (or numbers) are affected by electronegativity differences between atoms.

Another statement also correct

Oxidation states attempt to assign electrons to atoms in a molecule.

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