Chemistry
10th Edition
ISBN:9781305957404
Author:Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste
Publisher:Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste
Chapter1: Chemical Foundations
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1RQ: Define and explain the differences between the following terms. a. law and theory b. theory and...
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Transcribed Image Text:**Question:**
What is the oxidation number of S in the compound Na₂SO₄?
**Explanation:**
To determine the oxidation number of sulfur (S) in sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄), follow these steps:
1. **Assign Known Oxidation Numbers:**
- Sodium (Na) is part of Group 1 in the periodic table, so its oxidation number is +1. Since there are two sodium atoms, their total contribution is +2.
- Oxygen (O) typically has an oxidation number of -2. With four oxygen atoms, the total contribution is -8.
2. **Set Up the Equation:**
- The compound is neutral, so the sum of the oxidation numbers must equal zero.
- Let the oxidation number of sulfur be \( x \).
- Equation: \( 2(+1) + x + 4(-2) = 0 \).
3. **Solve the Equation:**
- Simplify: \( 2 + x - 8 = 0 \).
- Further simplify: \( x - 6 = 0 \).
- Solve for \( x \): \( x = +6 \).
Thus, the oxidation number of sulfur in Na₂SO₄ is +6.
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