Question

What is the oxidation state of sulfur in \( \text{H}_2\text{SO}_4 \)?

• A. \( +4 \)
• B. \( +6 \)
• C. \( 0 \)
• D. \( -2 \)

Hint:

In a compound, the sum of oxidation states must be zero. Use known oxidation states of other elements to find the unknown oxidation state.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understand the composition of \( \text{H}_2\text{SO}_4 \). In the compound \( \text{H}_2\text{SO}_4 \), we have: - 2 hydrogen atoms (\( \text{H} \)), - 1 sulfur atom (\( \text{S} \)), - 4 oxygen atoms (\( \text{O} \)). Step 2: Assign oxidation states. - The oxidation state of hydrogen (\( \text{H} \)) is \( +1 \). - The oxidation state of oxygen (\( \text{O} \)) is \( -2 \). Step 3: Set up the equation for the oxidation state of sulfur. The sum of the oxidation states in a neutral compound is zero. Let the oxidation state of sulfur be \( x \). For \( \text{H}_2\text{SO}_4 \), the equation becomes: \[ 2(+1) + x + 4(-2) = 0 \] Simplifying: \[ 2 + x - 8 = 0 \] \[ x = 6 \] Answer: Therefore, the oxidation state of sulfur in \( \text{H}_2\text{SO}_4 \) is \( +6 \).