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What sulphur species would be more thermodynamically stable: so42- so32- s2o3 s s42- hs-
Accepted Answer
The most thermodynamically stable sulfur species among the list is SO₄²⁻ (sulfate ion). Here's why:
Oxidation State: Sulfate has sulfur in its highest possible oxidation state (+6), making it relatively stable.
Resonance: The sulfate ion has extensive resonance structures, further stabilizing the molecule.
Polarity: The highly electronegative oxygen atoms create a highly polar molecule, allowing for strong interactions with water.
The other species listed have sulfur in lower oxidation states or lack the same level of stability due to factors like resonance and charge distribution. For example, SO₃²⁻ (sulfite) is less stable because it has a lower oxidation state and is more prone to oxidation.
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