What is the oxidation state of sulphur in sulphuric acid (H2SO4)?
Correct answer: B. +6
- A. -6
- B. +6
- C. -4
- D. +4
Explanation
In sulfuric acid (H2SO4), Hydrogen exists in its normal oxidation state of +1 and Oxygen exists in its normal oxidation state of -2. Since the overall compound H2SO4 is neutral, we know the sum of the oxidation states of all elements in the compound must be equal to 0. Let the oxidation state of Sulfur be x. 2(+1) + 1(x) + 4(-2) = 0 2 + x - 8 = 0 x - 6 = 0 x = +6 Therefore, B is the correct answer.
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Oxidation involves loss of electrons, increase in oxidation number or addition of oxygen, while reduction involves electron gain, decrease in oxidation number or removal of oxygen. The topic covers oxidising and reducing agents, oxidation-number changes, redox equations and the distinction between oxidation at the anode and reduction at the cathode.
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