What is the true formal oxidation state of the sulphur atom in Caro's Acid (), and why? — p Block Elements Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Calculating the OS directly gives +8, which is impossible as sulphur has only 6 valence electrons. Caro's acid contains one peroxy linkage where two oxygens are in the -1 state. Adjusting for this, the true maximum oxidation state of sulphur remains +6.