Question

select the correct answer.
what is the oxidation number of b in ( h_3bo_3 )?
a. -1
b. 0
c. +3
d. +6

Explanation:

Step1: <Oxidation number rules>

Let the oxidation number of \(B\) be \(x\). In \(H_3BO_3\), the oxidation number of \(H\) is \(+ 1\) (since \(H\) usually has an oxidation number of \(+1\) in compounds except in metal hydrides) and the oxidation number of \(O\) is \(-2\) (as \(O\) usually has an oxidation number of \(-2\) in compounds except in peroxides and super - oxides).

Step2: <Set up the equation>

Since the sum of oxidation numbers in a neutral compound is \(0\), we have the equation: \(3\times(+1)+x + 3\times(-2)=0\).

Step3: <Solve the equation>

$$
LATEXBLOCK0
$$

Answer:

C. +3