Question

Observe the following reaction \[ xS_8 (s) + yOH^-(aq) \to zS^{2-}(aq) + 2S_2O_3^{2-}(aq) + 6H_2O(l) \] x, y and z are respectively.

• A. 1, 12, 2004
• B. 1, 12, 2002
• C. 1, 4, 12
• D. 2, 12, 2

Hint:

Balancing the atoms of a reaction involves ensuring that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation. In reactions involving polyatomic ions, balance them as a whole unit.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Let's balance the reaction step by step: - First, balance the sulfur atoms: On the left side, there are 8 sulfur atoms in \( S_8 \), and on the right side, we have 1 sulfur atom in \( S^{2-} \) and 2 in \( S_2O_3^{2-} \). Thus, the number of sulfur atoms on the right is 4 from \( S_2O_3^{2-} \) and 4 from \( S^{2-} \). So, we will have \( x = 1 \) and \( z = 4 \). - Next, balance the oxygen atoms: On the right, there are 6 oxygen atoms from the \( 6H_2O \) molecules and 6 from the \( 2S_2O_3^{2-} \) ions. The total number of oxygen atoms on the left will match with \( y = 12 \). Thus, the values are: \[ x = 1, \, y = 12, \, z = 4 \] So the correct answer is \( \boxed{1, 12, 4} \).