Concept:The oxidation number of an element in an ion is found using known oxidation numbers of other atoms and the overall charge on the ion.
Explanation:Step 1: Find the oxidation number of nitrogen in
NO3−.
Let the oxidation number of nitrogen be
x.
Oxygen has an oxidation number of
−2.
The total charge on the ion is
−1.
Therefore,
x+3(−2)=−1.
Solving,
x−6=−1, so
x=+5.
Hence, nitrogen has an oxidation number of
+5 in
NO3−.
Step 2: Find the oxidation number of nitrogen in
NH4+.
Let the oxidation number of nitrogen be
y.
Hydrogen has an oxidation number of
+1.
The total charge on the ion is
+1.
Therefore,
y+4(+1)=+1.
Solving,
y+4=+1, so
y=−3.
Hence, nitrogen has an oxidation number of
−3 in
NH4+.
Step 3: Identify the change.
The oxidation number changes from
+5 to
−3.
Since the oxidation number decreases, this conversion is a reduction.
Answer:The change in oxidation number of nitrogen is from
+5 to
−3.
Correct option: A.
+5 to
−3.