Question detail
What is the oxidation state of sulfur in H2SO4?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Oxidation, reduction and redox equations
Question
- A. 0
- B. +6
- C. +4
- D. -2
Answer
The oxidation state of sulfur in H2SO4 is +6.
Explanation
In H2SO4, hydrogen has an oxidation state of +1 and oxygen has an oxidation state of -2. The overall charge of the molecule is neutral, so the oxidation state of sulfur can be calculated as follows: 2(+1) + x + 4(-2) = 0. This simplifies to x - 6 = 0, thus x = +6.
Common mistake
Balancing Redox Equations Mistake
Students often forget to balance both the number of atoms and the charges in redox equations, leading to incorrect final equations.
To balance a redox equation, first separate the oxidation and reduction half-equations. Ensure that both the number of atoms and the total charge are equal on both sides. For example, in the half-equation for the reduction of MnO4- to Mn2+, balance the manganese and oxygen atoms, then balance the charges by adding electrons. This ensures the final redox equation is accurate.
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