The mathematically calculated average oxidation state of Sulphur in the polythionate ion is +2.5. Le — Redox Reactions and Volumetric Analysis Chemistry Question
Question
The mathematically calculated average oxidation state of Sulphur in the polythionate ion $Na_2S_4O_6$ is +2.5. Let the absolute sum of the actual structural oxidation states of all four individual sulphur atoms in a single ion be $S$. What is the value of $S$?
Answer: 10
💡 Solution & Explanation
Structurally, $S_4O_6^{2-}$ has two terminal sulphurs at +5 and two central sulphurs at 0. Summing these actual states yields $5 + 0 + 0 + 5 = 10$. (Alternatively, Average O.S. $\times$ Number of atoms = $2.5 \times 4 = 10$).
💬Ask on WhatsApp →
Still have doubts about this question?
Send it to our AI chemistry tutor on WhatsApp — gets answered in minutes