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Oxidation State Calculator

Determine the oxidation state of elements in standard molecular formulas and polyatomic ions.

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Calculation Parameters

Specify your chemical inputs.

Select Molecule or Ion

Calculated Result

Oxidation States C: +4, O: -2

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Expert Tip

Double check molecular weights and balance equations to ensure stoichiometric ratios are correct.

How this Calculator Works

This calculator assigns oxidation numbers to each element in a molecule or polyatomic ion based on hierarchical IUPAC electronegativity rules. Enter the formula below:

Chemical Formula: A compound formula like CO2, H2O, or KMnO4 (Default: CO2)

The results are computed instantly and updated in the results panel on the right.

Formula & Methodology

Sum of Oxidation States = Net Charge of Compound

Where:

Oxidation Number: The theoretical charge of an atom if all bonds were ionic.
Hierarchical Rules: Elements = 0; Group 1 = +1; Group 2 = +2; F = -1; H = +1 (with non-metals); O = -2.

Step-by-Step Calculation Example

To calculate the oxidation states of carbon and oxygen in Carbon Dioxide ($CO_2$) manually, follow these steps:

Identify the input parameters. For example:
- Formula = CO2
- Net Charge = 0
- Oxygen Rule = -2
Apply the formula:
Total charge = C_state + 2 * O_state = 0 x + 2 * (-2) = 0 x - 4 = 0 => x = +4 (Oxidation state of Carbon)
Verify the calculated value which is updated instantly in the results panel on the right.