Question

The oxidation states of an elements in its neutral state is

a. zero charge

b. negative charge

c. Positive charge

d. none of the above.

Answer 1

Correct option is (a) zero charge

The oxidation state of an uncombined element is zero. This applies regardless of the structure of the element: Xe, Cl_2, S₈, and large structures of carbon or silicon each have an oxidation state of zero. The sum of the oxidation states of all the atoms or ions in a neutral compound is zero.