Final answer:
In MnSO₄, the oxidation number of manganese (Mn) is +2, sulfur (S) is +6, and oxygen (O) is -2 for each atom.
Step-by-step explanation:
Assigning oxidation numbers to the elements in MnSO₄ involves understanding that the sum of oxidation numbers in a compound must equal zero. The oxidation number of oxygen is typically -2, and since there are four oxygen atoms, their total contributes -8 to the charge. Sulfur (S) in sulfate (SO₄) typically has an oxidation number of +6. Knowing this, you can determine the oxidation number of manganese (Mn).
Using these rules:
- Oxygen (O) is -2 × 4 = -8 total.
- Sulfur (S) is +6.
- The compound is neutral, so Mn + 6 - 8 = 0, which means Mn must be +2.
Thus, the oxidation numbers for MnSO₄ are:
- Manganese (Mn): +2
- Sulfur (S): +6
- Oxygen (O): -2 (for each oxygen atom)