What is the mathematically calculated average oxidation number of Sulphur in the tetrathionate ion ( ), and what are the actual structural oxidation states of the constituent sulphur atoms within its

Question

What is the mathematically calculated average oxidation number of Sulphur in the tetrathionate ion ( $S_4O_6^{2-}$ ), and what are the actual structural oxidation states of the constituent sulphur atoms within its molecular framework?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: A. Mathematically, using standard assignment rules, . However, the actual physical structure of the tetrathionate ion is a linear chain: . The two terminal sulphur atoms are bonded to three highly electronegative oxygens, acquiring a oxidation state. The two central sulphur atoms are bonded solely to other identical sulphur atoms via single bonds, leaving their true structural oxidation state at .

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