The chemical formula for sulfur dioxide (SO2) can be determined using the common oxidation states of sulfur and oxygen. With sulfur in a +4 oxidation state and oxygen in a -2 oxidation state, the resulting molecule is electrically neutral.
Yes, it is possible to use the common charges of sulfur and oxygen to determine the formula of sulfur dioxide (SO2). Sulfur belongs to Group 16 of the periodic table and typically forms compounds with a -2 oxidation state. Oxygen usually forms compounds with a -2 oxidation state as well.
In sulfur dioxide (SO2), there are two oxygen atoms. If each oxygen atom carries a -2 charge, the total negative charge from oxygen would be -4 (-2 × 2). To achieve a neutral charge for the molecule, sulfur must have a +4 oxidation state, counterbalancing the negative charge from oxygen.
So, the chemical formula for sulfur dioxide is SO2, where sulfur has a +4 oxidation state, and each oxygen atom has a -2 oxidation state. This balanced combination results in a neutral molecule.
The probable question may be:
Sulfur dioxide So2 is present in our atmosphere and is used as a preservative in foods. Is it possible to use the common charges that sulfur and oxygen make to determine the formula