Chapter 18, Problem 7A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The sum of oxidation state of all the elements in H₂SO₄ needs to be determined.

Concept introduction: The change in oxidation state explains the gain or loss of electrons in the oxidation−reduction reactions.

Answer to Problem 7A

In ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{SO}}_{\text{4}}$ , sum of all oxidation states of all the atoms is zero.

Explanation of Solution

In ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{SO}}_{\text{4}}$ , oxidation state of H is +1. There are two hydrogen in the compound. Thus oxidation state of hydrogen in ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{SO}}_{\text{4}}$ is +2. Oxidation state of sulfur is +6 and oxidation state of four oxygen atoms is -8 $\left(-2\times 4=-8\right)$ . Thus overall oxidation state of ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{SO}}_{\text{4}}$ is as follows:

$\begin{array}{c}{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{SO}}_{\text{4}}=2+6-8\\ =0\end{array}$

Conclusion

Thus, the total oxidation state of elements in H₂SO4 is zero.