What is the oxidation state of the underlined element in the reaction: NaHCO₃ + HCl $\to$ NaCl + CO₂ + H₂O

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the molecule NaHCOS, the sum of the oxidation states must equal zero, since the molecule carries no overall charge. The oxidation state of Na is +1, the oxidation state of O in COS is -2, and the oxidation state of H is +1. Therefore, the oxidation state of C must be -1 (sum of oxidation states = 0). In the product COS + H2O, the sum of oxidation states of the molecule again must equal zero. The oxidation state of O in H2O is -2, and the oxidation state of H is +1. Therefore, the oxidation state of S in COS must be +2 (sum of oxidation states = 0).

What Is the Oxidation State of the Underlined Element in the Reaction