What is the oxidation number of each O in NH₄(H₂PO₄)?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In this molecule, S has an oxidation number of +6 since it is bonded to six O atoms. The two H atoms attached to the S each have an oxidation number of +1, and the P atom has an oxidation number of +5. To determine the oxidation number of O, we can use the equation:
-2x + 2(-1) + 6(+1) + 5(+1) + (-1) = 0
where x is the oxidation number of O. This simplifies to: 
-2x + 11 = 0
Thus, x = -5.5, which is not a whole number oxidation state. Therefore, we can conclude that there is no O atom in this molecule with a defined oxidation state. Instead, O is likely fulfilling its usual role as a neutral and non-charged ligand in this complex.

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What Is the Oxidation Number of Each O in NH₄(H₂PO₄)