Question

What is the oxidation number of each phosphorus atom (P) in the compound calcium phosphite, Ca3(PO3)2?

-2
-3
+3
+6

Answer 1

I think it is 3+ but I am not sure

Answer 2

It is + 6!

Answer 3

3(+2) + 2x - 6(+2) = 0

Answer 4

the calcium ions are actually irrelevant in finding the oxidation state of the elements in the phosphite ion. The \(PO_3^{-3}\) ion has 3 oxygen ions in it, each at a -2. The whole ion must have a net charge of -3. The algebra works out to:\[X + 3(-2) = -3\] The only logical answer is that the phosphorus is a +3