The oxidation state of S in H2S2O8 is
+6
By usual method :H2S2O8
1×2+2x+8×(−2)=0
⇒ 2x = +16 - 2 = 14 OR x = +7
Marshall's acid (the given compound) also has a peroxide linkage. Here S shows +6 oxidation state
Therefore the evaluation of oxidation state of sulphur should be made as follows:
2×(+1)+2×(X)+6×(−2)+2×(−1)=0