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. +6
- B. +4
- C. 0
- D. -2
Answer
+6
Explanation
In H2SO4, the oxidation state of sulfur is +6, calculated by balancing the oxidation states of hydrogen (+1) and oxygen (-2) in the compound.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Reduction
Students often confuse reduction with an increase in oxidation state instead of a decrease.
Reduction is defined as a decrease in oxidation state. To clarify, remember that when an element gains electrons, its oxidation state decreases. For example, in the reaction where Fe^3+ gains an electron to become Fe^2+, the oxidation state decreases from +3 to +2, confirming that reduction has occurred.
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