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Multiple Choice
What is the oxidation state of an individual sulfur atom in MgSO4?
A
+2
B
0
C
+6
D
+4
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the oxidation states of the other elements in the compound MgSO4. Magnesium (Mg) typically has an oxidation state of +2, and oxygen (O) typically has an oxidation state of -2.
Write the chemical formula for magnesium sulfate: MgSO4.
Use the rule that the sum of oxidation states in a neutral compound is zero. Set up an equation where the sum of the oxidation states of Mg, S, and O equals zero:
Solve the equation for the oxidation state of sulfur (S). Substitute the known values:
Rearrange the equation to find the value of x, which represents the oxidation state of sulfur: