nitrous oxide contains nitrogen in the +1 oxidation state. it is used as an anesthetic. compounds containing nitrogen in the +2 oxidation state, such as nitric oxide, are reducing agents. +3 oxidation state compounds are strong oxidizing agents and weak reducing agents. nitrites are the most common +3 compounds. compounds in the +4 oxidation state are strong oxidizing agents. they include nitrogen dioxide and dinitrogen tetroxide.