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Rafa
ReneA metal typically has only positive oxidation numbers, while a nonmetal can have both positive and negative oxidation numbers. Metals tend to lose electrons (positive oxidation numbers) to form cations, while nonmetals can gain or lose electrons to form a variety of oxidation states.
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Is a property that can have both positive and negative oxidation numbers a metal or nonmetal?
A property that can have both positive and negative oxidation numbers typically corresponds to a metal. Metals tend to lose electrons to form positive oxidation states and gain electrons to form negative oxidation states, while nonmetals typically gain electrons to form negative oxidation states.
How do oxidation numbers determine if an element is a metal or a nonmetal?
Oxidation numbers help determine the type of element based on the tendency of elements to gain or lose electrons. Metals typically have positive oxidation numbers (since they tend to lose electrons to form cations), while nonmetals have negative oxidation numbers or share electrons (to form anions). This difference in electron behavior distinguishes metals from nonmetals based on their oxidation numbers.
Can metals have positive and negative oxidation numbers?
Yes, metals can have positive oxidation numbers when they lose electrons to form cations. However, metals typically do not have negative oxidation numbers since they usually do not gain electrons to form anions.
The oxidation number of an atom is shown with a negative number?
No, the oxidation number of an atom is typically shown as a positive or negative number (or zero) that represents the charge it would have in a compound or ion. Positive oxidation numbers indicate loss of electrons, while negative oxidation numbers indicate gain of electrons.
What can have both positive and negative oxidation numbers?
Molecules with transition metals like manganese, iron, or copper can have both positive and negative oxidation numbers. The oxidation number depends on the specific chemical environment and the oxidation state of the metal ion.
