Question

What are the oxidation numbers of the underlined elements in the following and how do you rationalise your results?

CH₃CH₂OH

Answer 1

CH₃CH₂OH

2(x) + 6(+1) + 1(-2) = 0 or 2x + 4 = 0

or x = -2

Hence, the O.N. of C is –2.