Question

What is the oxidation number of sulfur in sulfuric acid (H$_2$SO$_4$)?

• A. 4
• B. 6
• C. 8
• D. None of the above

Hint:

When determining the oxidation state of an element in a compound, balance the total oxidation states based on known values for other elements in the compound.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understand the chemical formula.
Sulfuric acid is represented as H₂SO₄.

Step 2: Know the oxidation numbers of known elements:
- Hydrogen (H) has an oxidation number of +1.
- Oxygen (O) has an oxidation number of -2.

Step 3: Let the oxidation number of sulfur (S) be x.
Total oxidation number of the molecule is 0 (since H₂SO₄ is a neutral compound).

Step 4: Write the oxidation number equation:
(2 × +1) + (1 × x) + (4 × -2) = 0
⇒ 2 + x - 8 = 0
⇒ x = 6

Final Answer: +6