What are the oxidation states of sulfur in sodium thiosulfate (Na2S2O3)?
Understand the Problem
The question asks us to determine the oxidation state(s) of sulfur in sodium thiosulfate (Na2S2O3). To solve this, we need to consider the overall charge of the compound and the known oxidation states of the other elements (Na and O), and then deduce the oxidation state(s) of the sulfur atoms.
Answer
Sulfur in Na2S2O3 has oxidation states of +5 and -1, with an average of +2.
The oxidation states of sulfur in sodium thiosulfate (Na2S2O3) are +5 and -1. However, the average oxidation state is +2.
Answer for screen readers
The oxidation states of sulfur in sodium thiosulfate (Na2S2O3) are +5 and -1. However, the average oxidation state is +2.
More Information
In sodium thiosulfate, one sulfur atom has a +5 oxidation state, while the other has a -1 oxidation state. This difference arises from the unique structure of the thiosulfate ion, where one sulfur atom replaces an oxygen atom in the sulfate ion.
Tips
A common mistake is to assume all sulfur atoms have the same oxidation state. In thiosulfate, they are different due to the structure.
Sources
- What are the two oxidation states of sulphur in sodium thiosulphate2 - researchgate.net
- Oxidation number of sulphur in Na_2S_2O_3 would be :0+2-2+4 - toppr.com
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