Question

For the following element, predict the most likely oxidation number (charge) for its corresponding ion.

Phosphorus

A. P+1
B. P+3
C. P-1
D. P-3

Answer 1

Answer: D. P-3

Step-by-step explanation:

The most likely ion of Phosphorous is P³⁻ (group 15) since gaining three electrons is the most energetically favorable way for it to follow the octet rule.

Because the charge on ions is equivalent to their oxidation state, then -3 is the most likely oxidation number of Phosphorous.