Question

Determine the oxidation state of the bold element in the following

1 Na2So4

2 H2So3

3 NaHco3

4 Na2Co3

Answer 1

Solution:

(1): Na₂SO₄ − sodium sulfate

The oxidation states (OS) of the elements in this compound:

OS(Na) = +1;

OS(S) = +6;

OS(O) = −2

(2): H₂SO₃ − sulfurous acid

The oxidation states (OS) of the elements in this compound:

OS(H) = +1;

OS(S) = +4;

OS(O) = −2

(3): NaHCO₃ − sodium bicarbonate

The oxidation states (OS) of the elements in this compound:

OS(Na) = +1;

OS(H) = +1;

OS(C) = +4;

OS(O) = −2

(4): Na₂CO₃ − sodium carbonate

The oxidation states (OS) of the elements in this compound:

OS(Na) = +1;

OS(C) = +4;

OS(O) = −2