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Which of the following is the oxidation number of sulfur in the compound potassium thiosulfate, K2S2O3?
Accepted Answer
The oxidation number of sulfur in potassium thiosulfate, K₂S₂O₃, is +2. Here's how to determine that:
1. Know the oxidation numbers of common elements:
- Potassium (K) is always +1 in compounds.
- Oxygen (O) is usually -2 in compounds (except in peroxides).
2. Set up an algebraic equation:
- Let 'x' be the oxidation number of sulfur.
- The sum of the oxidation numbers in a neutral compound must equal zero.
- Equation: 2(+1) + 2(x) + 3(-2) = 0
3. Solve for 'x':
- 2 + 2x - 6 = 0
- 2x = 4
- x = +2
Therefore, the oxidation number of sulfur in K₂S₂O₃ is +2.
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