One step in the production of elemental phosphorus from phosphate rock is though

Question

One step in the production of elemental phosphorus from phosphate rock is though to be

P4O10

+

10 C

10 CO

+

P4

Assign an oxidation number to each atom and verify that the total number of electrons lost is equal to the total number gained.

Enter the oxidation numbers under each substance in the box corresponding to the element label to the left.
If a box is not needed, leave it blank.

P4O10

C

CO

P4

For the reaction as written, the total number of electrons lost is  and the total number of electrons gained is .

P4O10

+

10 C

10 CO

+

P4

Explanation / Answer

oxidation number of neutral element is = zero

So,

C = 0

P4 = 0

but, in

P4O10 =0

(P4) (-2X10)=0 Please remember, oxygen oxidation state is -2

P4= +20

P=+5

simalarily

CO = 0

C (-2) = 0

C = +2

So, the eqn is

Pv4 010 + 10C0-----> 10 CIIO + P04

in the electrons,

Pv4 010  - > P04   20 eelctrons gained

10C0 -----> 10 CIIO 20 electrons lost

Hope, you undestand !!!

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