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What is the oxidation state of S in H₂SO4?
OA. +8
OB. +6
OC. -4
OD. -2

User Henry Merriam
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1 Answer

26 votes
26 votes

Answer:

B.) +6

Step-by-step explanation:

To find the oxidation number of sulfur, we can assume the oxidation numbers of the other elements.

What I mean is, oxygen (O) always has an oxidation number of (-2). That being said, if there are 4 oxygen atoms, oxygen is contributing -8 overall. We also know that hydrogen generally has an oxidation number of (+1). Like before, if there are 2 hydrogens, it must be contributing +2.

If the overall molecule is neutral, we have to get these charges to balance out.

In essence, -8 + 2 + ? = 0?

If you combine the charges from oxygen and hydrogen, you are left with -6. Therefore, to make the molecule neutral, sulfur must have an oxidation number of +6.

User Captain Blammo
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