Question

Which of the following is the most acidic in nature?

• A. $Si{O}_2$
• B. $P_4{O}_{10}$
• C. $C{O}_2$
• D. $S{O}_3$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $S{O}_3$

As we move from left to right along the periodic table, acidic nature of the oxides increases. Also acidic nature of oxides increases with increase in oxidation state of the central atom.

The oxidation state of $Si$ in $Si{O}_2=+4$
The oxidation state of $P$ in $P_4{O}_{10}=+5$
The oxidation state of $C$ in $C{O}_2=+4$
The oxidation state of $S$ in $S{O}_3=+6$

Hence, $S{O}_3$ with sulphur in the +6 oxidation state is the most acidic.