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 correct option is +6.
Explanation
In H2SO4, the total oxidation state must equal zero. Each hydrogen is +1 (2 total), and each oxygen is -2 (4 total). Therefore, sulfur must be +6 to balance the equation: 2(+1) + x + 4(-2) = 0, leading to x = +6.
Common mistake
Misidentifying Oxidation and Reduction
Students often confuse oxidation with reduction, thinking that both involve an increase in oxidation state.
Remember that oxidation is defined as an increase in oxidation state, while reduction is a decrease. For example, in the reaction of zinc with copper sulfate, zinc is oxidized (its oxidation state increases from 0 to +2) and copper is reduced (its oxidation state decreases from +2 to 0).
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