Question

if an ion gains an electron, what happens to its oxidation state?

Explanation:

Oxidation state is related to electron transfer. Gaining electrons (reduction) lowers the oxidation state. For example, if an ion \( X^{n+} \) gains an electron (\( X^{n+}+e^-\to X^{(n - 1)+} \)), its oxidation state decreases by 1.

Answer:

The oxidation state of the ion decreases.