Can anyone tell me if I am right. The charge or oxidation number for Na2S4O6? Is the charge/oxidation number for the Sulfur 10+
thanks
2007-03-13 18:29:07 · 2 answers · asked by Boo Radley 4 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
No,
although Na-tetrathionate has peroxide linkage in its tetrathionate (S4O6--) radical, it will contribute nothing to the calculation of O.N.
so,
2 + 4S - 6*2 = 0
or, S = 2.5
this is a special case where the O.N. is a fraction & is cited in books to break the misconception of student that O.N. cant be fractions.
2007-03-13 18:37:44 · answer #1 · answered by s0u1 reaver 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, it's not +10. There are 4 sulfurs, not 1, so the +10 "charge" is split between the 4 atoms. Sulfur really doesn't like having a +3 oxidation state, so this is more accurately described as one sulfur at a +4 oxidation state and 3 sulfurs at +2.
2007-03-14 01:35:25 · answer #2 · answered by TheOnlyBeldin 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋