Understanding Oxidation Numbers

* Oxidation numbers represent the hypothetical charge an atom would have if all its bonds were 100% ionic.

* The sum of oxidation numbers in a neutral molecule is always zero.

* We know the oxidation numbers of hydrogen (+1) and oxygen (-2) in most compounds.

Steps to find the oxidation number of sulfur:

1. Assign known oxidation numbers:

* Hydrogen (H) has an oxidation number of +1.

* Oxygen (O) has an oxidation number of -2.

2. Let 'x' be the oxidation number of sulfur (S):

3. Set up the equation:

* 2(+1) + x + 4(-2) = 0

(Since there are two hydrogen atoms, one sulfur atom, and four oxygen atoms)

4. Solve for 'x':

* 2 + x - 8 = 0

* x = +6

Therefore, the oxidation number of sulfur in H₂SO₄ is +6.