Question

What is the oxidation number of (NH4)2So4

Answer 1

Explanation:

The total charge on sulphate ion is -2 , hence the total charge on ammonium ion (NH4)2 should be +2. Total charge on a single ammonium ion (NH4) is +1.

Hence the required equation will be

x+4*(1) = +1

Solving the equation will give the oxidation state of nitrogen - 3 and not 1.

Answer 2

Explanation:

(NH 4 ) 2SO 4⇌2NH 4+SO 4 2−

N H 4+

Let, x be the oxidation state of N.

x+4×1=+1; ⇒x=−3