Question

what is the oxidation state of each element in aluminum hydroxide (al(oh)₃)?
○ al⁺³; h⁺¹; o⁻²
○ al⁻³; h⁻¹; o⁺²
○ al₁; h₃; o₃
○ al₁; h₁; o₃

Explanation:

Step1: Determine oxidation state of oxygen

In most compounds, oxygen has an oxidation state of \(-2\).

Step2: Determine oxidation state of hydrogen

In most compounds, hydrogen has an oxidation state of \(+1\).

Step3: Determine oxidation state of aluminum

Let the oxidation state of \(Al\) be \(x\). In \(Al(OH)_3\), since the overall charge of the compound is \(0\). Each \(OH^-\) has a charge of \(-1\) (because \(O=-2\) and \(H = +1\), so \(-2+1=-1\)). There are three \(OH^-\) groups. So \(x+3\times(-1)=0\), which gives \(x = +3\).

Answer:

\(Al^{+3};H^{+1};O^{-2}\) (First option)