Which rule concerning oxidation numbers is NOT true?

Question

A. Fluorine always has an oxidation number of –1 in molecules that contain two or more types of atoms.

B. Oxygen has an oxidation number of –2 in molecules that contain two or more types of atoms.

C. If all else fails, assume that the atom’s oxidation number is the same as what it would take on in an ionic compound.

D. Reduction is the process by which an atom gains electrons.

E. Oxidation is the process by which an atom gains electrons.

Answer 1

A. Fluorine always has an oxidation number of –1 in molecules that contain two or more types of atoms is FALSE.

E. Oxidation is the process by which an atom gains electrons is also FALSE but this is not related to a rule concerning oxidation numbers.