Question

What is the formal charge on the sulfur atom in so? use the periodic table as needed. express the formal charge numerically

Answer 1

Both the S and O belong to group 6A elements, thus, both possess similar valence electrons, that is, six and equivalent sharing of bonding electrons. The formal charge is determined by using the formula, formal charge = valence electrons - (nonbonding electrons + bonding electrons)

The formal charge on the sulfur atom in SO is:

Formal charge on S atom = 6 - (4 + 2) = 0

Hence, the formal charge on the S atom is 0.