What is the oxidation number of sulfur in (NH₄)2S₂O₃?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In (NH₄)₂S₂O₃, the oxidation number of hydrogen is +1, and for oxygen, it is -2. The ammonium ion (NH₄⁺) does not affect the oxidation state of sulfur directly. To find the oxidation state of sulfur, we can set up an equation considering the overall charge of the thiosulfate ion (S₂O₃²⁻) is -2. Let x be the oxidation state of sulfur. The equation based on oxidation states is: 2x + (3)(-2) = -2, solving for x gives x = +2. Therefore, sulfur has an oxidation state of +2 in (NH₄)₂S₂O₃.

What Is the Oxidation Number of Sulfur in (NH₄)2S₂O₃