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Ch.12 - Solids and Modern Material
Chapter 12, Problem 57

What is the oxidation state of each element in the compound Ca3SiO5?

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1
Identify the oxidation state of calcium (Ca). Calcium is an alkaline earth metal, typically having an oxidation state of +2.
Identify the oxidation state of oxygen (O). Oxygen usually has an oxidation state of -2.
Let the oxidation state of silicon (Si) be x.
Write the equation for the sum of oxidation states in the compound: 3(+2) + x + 5(-2) = 0.
Solve the equation for x to find the oxidation state of silicon.