A Survey of Nitrogen Oxidation States

Nitrogen displays each of the nine oxidation states from —3 to +5. Indeed, it is this variety that makes it unique within the group. Phosphorus displays the same range, but only —3, 0, +3, +4, and +5 are of any major importance. Arsenic and antimony are restricted to —3,0, +3, and +5, and bismuth shows only 0, +3, and +5. 

To organize and simplify this survey, the description of many of the compounds discussed will be accompanied by a compound profile. Each profile will include (1) any common names, (2) a physical description, (3 ) the molecular and structural formulas (with bond angles and distances), (4) a note concerning the history and/or application of the compound, (5) equations representing the common preparation(s), and (6) equations representing major reactions. The description of the compounds will amplify these entries as necessary. 

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