What is the oxidation state of sulfur in SO4^2-?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking us to determine the oxidation state of sulfur (S) in the sulfate ion (SO4^2-). To solve it, we will use the rules for calculating oxidation states, keeping in mind that the overall charge of the ion must equal -2.
Answer
+6
The oxidation state of sulfur in SO4^2 is +6.
Answer for screen readers
The oxidation state of sulfur in SO4^2 is +6.
More Information
The sulfate ion (SO4^2-) has a total charge of -2. With four oxygen atoms each contributing an oxidation state of -2, the sulfur must have an oxidation state of +6 to balance the overall charge.
Tips
A common mistake is not taking into account the overall charge of the ion while calculating the oxidation state.
Sources
- Cisplatin 3. Redox Chemistry - chem.libretexts.org
- Find the oxidation number of S in {SO_4}^{2-} ion? - toppr.com
- The web page with info on - Purdue University - chemed.chem.purdue.edu
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