The number of electrons that an atom can gain, lose or share is termed as the oxidation number or state. It can also be defined as the degree of atom of an element. They can also be called as bookkeeping numbers and they are used to describe the transfer of electrons. This table contains the oxidation state of all elements in the periodic table. Make use of this chart to know the common , positive and negative oxidation states of common elements.
This oxidation number concept was initially introduced by the Chemist W.M Latimer in his book 'The Oxidation States of the Elements and Their Potentials in Aqueous Solution'.
