Question

The oxidation number of sulphur in sulphur dioxide$S{O}_2$ and sulphuric acid$H_{2}S{O}_4$ is respectively

• A. +6 and +4
• B. +4 and +6
• C. +4 and +4
• D. +6 and +6

Answer 1

The correct option is B

+4 and +6

Let us take a look at sulphur dioxide($S{O}_2$).

Let the oxidation number of sulphur in this compound be $x$.

Since there is no charge on this compound so the sum of oxidation number for all the elements is equal to zero.

$x$ + (2)(-2) = 0

$x$ = +4

Hence the oxidation number of sulphur is +4 in $S{O}_2$.

Now let's take a look at sulphuric acid($H_{2}S{O}_4$).

Let the oxidation number of sulphur in this compound be $y$.

2(1) + $y$ + 4(-2) = 0

$y$ -6 = 0

$y$ = +6

Oxidation number of sulphur is +6 in $H_{2}S{O}_4$.

So the answer is +4 and +6.