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Oxidation states in the periodic table

Among others, the periodic table can provide practical information about the oxidation state of an element (Figure 1). This number is defined as the formal charge on the atom if all bonds were assumed to be fully ionic. Knowing the oxidation state is very useful for example when balancing reduction-oxidation (redox) reactions.

The view of periodic table with oxidation states for elements in group 1,2 and from groups from 13 to 17. Elements in group 1, from period 1 to 7, are metals - except hydrogen in period 1, with the possible oxidation state as +1. Elements in group 2, from period 2 to 7 are metals, with possible oxidation state +2. Elements in group 13, from period 2 to 7 are metals - except Boron, with oxidation state +2. All Elements in group 14 have oxidation state + - 4. All Elements in group 15 have oxidation state -3. All Elements in group 16 have oxidation state -2, except Livermonium in period 7, with oxidation state -3. All Elements in group 17 have oxidation state -1. Finally, all Elements in group 18 have oxidation state 0.

Figure 1: Oxidation states in the Periodic Table.

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Article
Oxidation numbers for atoms, ions and compounds