Hydrogen can have an oxidation number of –1 when _______.

Question

A. it is grouped in molecules with three or more atoms

B. it is grouped with just one other atom that is a noble gas

C. it is grouped with just one other atom that is a metal

D. it is grouped with just one other atom that is a non-metal

E. None of the Above

 

Answer 1

Hi Jesset C.,

I agree with your choice (Only a few metals will do this -- you can look up electronegativities, etc.), though it is not an A -> B, B -> A relationship. Occasionally there are "mixed salts" formed with definite composition, such as LiAlH₄ . A useful reducing reagent!

-- Cheers, --Mr. d.