Oxidation Number

Definition

The oxidation number is a positive or negative number that represents the charge an atom would have if electrons were transferred completely. It indicates the electron distribution in a compound.

Related terms

Redox Reaction:

A chemical reaction that involves both reduction (gain of electrons) and oxidation (loss of electrons).

Valence Electrons:

The electrons in the outermost energy level of an atom which determine its reactivity.

Electronegativity:

The ability of an atom to attract shared electrons in a covalent bond.