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The oxidation number of the preceding atom

e.g. KMn(VII)O4.

The oxidation number tells us the number of electrons in the outermost (valence( shell, that are involved in bonding with electrons of other atoms.

So Seven (VII) of manganese's electrons are involved in bonding. However, NOT all electrons in the valence shell are in volved in bonding ; there may be 'lone pairs'.

Generally, oxidation numbers refer to Transition Elements ( between Groups (II) & ( III). However, other non-metallic elements may also exhibit variable oxid'n numbers. e.g. Sulphur or Nitrogen.

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lenpollock

Lvl 17
3d ago

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