Fact check: Oxidation states can be fractions because fractions of electrons can be transferred in oxidation-reduction reactions.

1. Summary of the results

The claim that oxidation states can be fractions because fractions of electrons can be transferred in oxidation-reduction reactions is partially supported by the analyses provided. Some sources imply that oxidation states can be fractional in certain cases, such as in the presence of non-innocent ligands or in compounds with delocalized electrons ^[1]. Additionally, a discussion on Reddit mentions fractional oxidation states in the context of altering the oxidation states of the compound LiMnTiO4, suggesting that fractional oxidation states can occur in certain materials ^[2]. However, other sources do not provide direct evidence to support or refute the claim, and some sources are unrelated to the topic ^{[3] [4] [5] [6] [7]}. Key points to consider are the specific conditions under which fractional oxidation states can occur, such as the presence of certain ligands or chemical environments ^[8].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

A crucial aspect missing from the original statement is the context in which fractional oxidation states can occur. The sources suggest that fractional oxidation states are not a general rule, but rather a specific phenomenon that can occur in certain compounds or materials ^{[1] [2]}. Alternative viewpoints, such as the role of electron transfer mechanisms in proteins and biological-inorganic hybrid systems, are not directly relevant to the claim, but could provide additional insight into the conditions under which fractional oxidation states can occur ^{[5] [6]}. Further research is needed to fully understand the conditions under which fractional oxidation states can occur, including the role of ligands, chemical environments, and electron transfer mechanisms. Some sources provide examples of oxidation-reduction reactions, but do not explicitly address the claim, highlighting the need for more specific and relevant information ^[9].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement may be misleading, as it implies that fractional oxidation states are a general consequence of electron transfer in oxidation-reduction reactions. However, the sources suggest that fractional oxidation states are a specific phenomenon that requires certain conditions, such as the presence of non-innocent ligands or delocalized electrons ^[1]. The statement may benefit those who oversimplify the concept of oxidation states, as it provides a simplistic explanation for a complex phenomenon. On the other hand, those who require a nuanced understanding of oxidation states, such as researchers or students, may be misled by the statement and require more detailed and accurate information ^[2]. The sources provided do not exhibit explicit bias, but rather a lack of direct evidence to support or refute the claim, highlighting the need for further research and clarification ^{[3] [4] [5] [6] [7]}.