Questions: What is the oxidation number of magnesium in MgI2?

Transcript text: What is the oxidation number of magnesium in $\mathrm{MgI}_{2}$ ?

Solution

Solution Steps

Step 1: Identify the compound and its components

The compound given is $\mathrm{MgI}_{2}$. It consists of magnesium (Mg) and iodine (I).

Step 2: Determine the oxidation number of iodine

Iodine typically has an oxidation number of $-1$ in compounds.

Step 3: Set up the equation for the oxidation numbers

In $\mathrm{MgI}_{2}$, there are two iodine atoms. Therefore, the total oxidation number contributed by iodine is: \[ 2 \times (-1) = -2 \]

Step 4: Solve for the oxidation number of magnesium

The sum of the oxidation numbers in a neutral compound must be zero. Let $x$ be the oxidation number of magnesium. The equation is: \[ x + (-2) = 0 \] Solving for $x$: \[ x = 2 \]

Final Answer

The oxidation number of magnesium in $\mathrm{MgI}_{2}$ is $\boxed{2}$.

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