To determine the oxidation state of nitrogen (N) in the ammonium ion, \( NH_4^+ \), follow these steps:
1. Identify the oxidation state of hydrogen (H):
The oxidation state of hydrogen in most compounds is \( +1 \).
2. Set up the equation:
Let's assume the oxidation state of nitrogen is \( x \). The ammonium ion \( NH_4^+ \) consists of one nitrogen atom and four hydrogen atoms.
3. Write the expression for the sum of oxidation states:
The total oxidation states of all atoms in the ion must equal the overall charge of the ion, which is \( +1 \) in the case of ammonium.
So, we write the equation:
[tex]\[
x + 4 \times (+1) = +1
\][/tex]
4. Simplify the equation:
[tex]\[
x + 4 = 1
\][/tex]
5. Solve for \( x \):
[tex]\[
x = 1 - 4
\][/tex]
[tex]\[
x = -3
\][/tex]
Therefore, the oxidation state of nitrogen in \( NH_4^+ \) is \( -3 \).
So, the correct answer is:
A. [tex]\(-3\)[/tex]
