The oxidation number is a positive or negative number that represents the charge an atom would have if electrons were transferred completely. It indicates the electron distribution in a compound.
Related terms
Redox Reaction: A chemical reaction that involves both reduction (gain of electrons) and oxidation (loss of electrons).
Valence Electrons: The electrons in the outermost energy level of an atom which determine its reactivity.
Electronegativity: The ability of an atom to attract shared electrons in a covalent bond.