Multiple Choice
What is the oxidation state of copper (Cu) in Cu_2O?
35
views
6. Chemical Quantities & Aqueous Reactions
Calculate Oxidation Numbers
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What is the average oxidation number of sulfur in sodium thiosulfate, ?
A
B
C
D
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the chemical formula of sodium thiosulfate: \(\mathrm{Na_2S_2O_3}\).
Assign known oxidation numbers: sodium (Na) is always +1, and oxygen (O) is usually -2.
Set up an equation for the sum of oxidation numbers in the compound, which must equal zero because the compound is neutral: \$2(\text{oxidation of Na}) + 2(\text{oxidation of S}) + 3(\text{oxidation of O}) = 0$.
Substitute the known values: \$2(+1) + 2(x) + 3(-2) = 0\(, where \)x$ is the average oxidation number of sulfur.
Solve the equation for \(x\) to find the average oxidation number of sulfur in sodium thiosulfate.
Related Videos
Related Practice
Calculate Oxidation Numbers practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations