Question Details

In which of the following compound central atom has +4 oxidation state?

Options

A

SO3

B

H2SO3

C

H2S2O7

D

BaSO4

Correct Answer :

H2SO3

Solution :

The correct answer is H2SO3.

To determine the oxidation state of the central sulfur atom (S) in sulfurous acid (H2SO3), we use the standard oxidation state rules:
1. The oxidation state of Hydrogen (H) is generally +1 when bonded to non-metals.
2. The oxidation state of Oxygen (O) is generally -2 in most of its compounds.
3. The sum of the oxidation states of all atoms in a neutral compound must equal 0.

Let the oxidation state of the central sulfur atom (S) be represented by x.

Setting up the equation for the neutral molecule H2SO3:

2×(+1)+x+3×(-2)=0

Simplifying the expression:

2+x-6=0

x-4=0

x=+4

Therefore, the oxidation state of the central sulfur atom in H2SO3 is indeed +4.

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