Formal Charge and Oxidation Numbers Relation

[Azlyn Hernandez 2E]

Is there a direct relationship between Formal Charge and Oxidation Numbers or do they just tell us about the electron distribution?

[Hannah Cole 3J]

Hi there! Formal charge evaluates the distribution of electrons in a Lewis structure by assigning electrons to the more electronegative atom in a bond. Oxidation number tracks the real or apparent transfer of electrons between elements in a chemical compound, aiding in identifying oxidized and reduced species in redox reactions. While there is a correlation between formal charge and oxidation number, they are distinct measures with different purposes in understanding electron distribution. I hope this helps!

[Isabelle Huerta 2I]

There's no direct relationship between formal charge and oxidation number. They can be different for the same atom in a molecule or ion. Formal charges help determine the best Lewis structure, indicating electron distribution, while oxidation numbers are used to track electron transfer in chemical reactions, especially in redox reactions.