Consider the following reaction equation: 2NO(g)+O2(g)→2NO2(g). What is the change in the oxidation number of nitrogen?

A. +2 to 0
B. +2 to -2
C. +2 to +4
D. +4 to +2

Correct Answer: Option C

Explanation

In NO, the oxidation number for nitrogen is N – 2 = 0

⇒ N = +2

In NO2, we have N – (2×2) =0

N – 4 =0

N =+4