Question

How many valence electrons are found in the Lewis structure for the sulphate ion?

• A. $42$
• B. $40$
• C. $8$
• D. $32$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $32$

Neutral oxygen and sulphur atom contain 6 valence electrons. Negatively charged oxygen atoms contain 7 valence electrons.

So the total electron count, $(3\times 6)+(2\times 7)=32$.