What is the oxidation state for each atom in the following reaction: 4Fe + 3O2 → 2Fe2O3
Elemental iron (Fe)
Elemental oxygen (O2)
One iron atom in Fe2O3
One oxygen atom in Fe2O3

Any help would be much appreciated, thanks!

Question

What is the oxidation state for each atom in the following reaction: 4Fe + 3O2 → 2Fe2O3
Elemental iron (Fe)
Elemental oxygen (O2)
One iron atom in Fe2O3
One oxygen atom in Fe2O3

 Any help would be much appreciated, thanks!

jfraser · Answer

by definition, "elemental" substances all have oxidation states of zero, since they are not combined with other atoms.

The IONS of iron and oxygen in the products must have opposite charges if they're going to stick together, and their TOTAL SUM must equal zero, because the compound $Fe_2O_3$ is neutral, also