Question
What is the difference in oxidation number of nitrogen when nitric acid is converted into nitrous oxide ?
MHT CET
Chemistry
Redox Reactions
2026
MHT CET 2026 (20 April Shift 1)
MHT CET Chemistry Question (2026) — Solution
Options
- A. +1
- B. +2
- C. +4
- D. +3
Answer
C. +4
Step-by-step solution
The chemical formula of nitric acid is HNO_3. Let the oxidation state of nitrogen in HNO_3 be x. +1 + x + 3(-2) = 0 x = +5 The chemical formula of nitrous oxide is N_2O. Let the oxidation state of nitrogen in N_2O be y. 2y + (-2) = 0 y = +1 The difference in the oxidation number of nitrogen is 5 - 1 = 4. Answer: +4
Related: Chemistry — Redox Reactions · All PYQ Banks