Question

Problem 6.1: Deduce the oxidation number
of S in the following species:
i. SO2
ii. SO4
​

Answer 1

The oxidation number is the number that is allocated to elements or compounds in a chemical reaction.

Explanation:

• Basically, it is a number that is assigned to an atom, or compound when it loses, gains, or shares electrons.
• The oxidation number of sulfur in sulfur dioxide (SO2) is +4.
• While the oxidation number of sulfur in sulfate ion (SO4)-2  is +6.

Answer 2

$\large \tt Oxidation \: \: \: number\\ \\ \tt { \: }^{ \huge SO} { \bold2}^{ \: } = \bold{ + 4} \\ \\ \\ \\ \tt{ \: }^{ \huge \: SO} { \bold4}^{ \: } = \bold{+ 6}$