Consider the elements: Cs, Ne, I and F (a) Identify the element that exhibits only negative oxidation state. (b) Identify the element that exhibits only positive oxidation state. (c) Identify the element that exhibits both positive and negative oxidation states. (d) Identify the element which exhibits neither the negative nor does the positive oxidation state.
F
Cs
I
Ne
Explanation
Based on the general rules of oxidation states, metallic elements exhibit positive oxidation numbers, while nonmetallic elements can exhibit positive or negative oxidation numbers. Cs is an alkali metal and always exhibits a +1 oxidation state. Fluorine (F) is the most electronegative element and only exhibits a -1 oxidation state. Iodine (I) is a halogen that can exhibit both negative (e.g., -1 in iodides) and positive oxidation states (e.g., +1, +3, +5, +7 in oxoacids). Neon (Ne) is a noble gas and typically exhibits a zero oxidation state, meaning neither positive nor negative.