The oxidation number of sulphur in `H_(2)S_(2)O_(8)` is:

Options

A. `+7`
B. `+6`
C. `-6`
D. `+4`

Answer

To determine the oxidation number of sulfur in \( H_2S_2O_8 \), we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Assign Variables
Assume the oxidation number of sulfur is \( x \).

### Step 2: Identify Known Oxidation States
- The oxidation number of hydrogen (H) is +1.
- The oxidation number of oxygen (O) is typically -2, but in the case of peroxy linkages (as in \( H_2S_2O_8 \)), the oxidation state of the two oxygen atoms involved in the peroxy bond is -1.

### Step 3: Write the Equation
The formula for the compound is \( H_2S_2O_8 \). We can set up the equation based on the sum of oxidation states equaling zero:

\[ 2(+1) + 2x + 6(-2) + 2(-1) = 0 \]

### Step 4: Simplify the Equation
Now, simplify the equation:

\[ 2 + 2x - 12 - 2 = 0 \]

This simplifies to:

\[ 2x - 12 = 0 \]

### Step 5: Solve for \( x \)
Now, solve for \( x \):

\[ 2x = 12 \\ x = 6 \]

### Conclusion
The oxidation number of sulfur in \( H_2S_2O_8 \) is +6.

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