Determine the correct oxidation numbers for all three elements in Rb₂SO₃ in the order that the elements are shown in the formula. A) -2, +6, -2. B) -1, +4, -3 C) +2, +4, -2 D) +1, +4, -2 E) +1, +6, -6

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rb has a +1 oxidation state as it is an alkali metal in group 1 of the periodic table. 
Sulfur typically has -2 oxidation state, and thus the sulfurs shown in the formula are -2. 
For U and B, we know that the sum of the oxidation states must equal zero given that the compound is neutral. Thus, we can set up two equations: 
x + 12(-3) + (-2) = 0 for B (where x is the oxidation state of B) 
y + 2(-6) + (-2) + 13(-2) + (-2) = 0 for U (where y is the oxidation state of U) 
Solving for x and y, we get the oxidation states of +4 for B and +4 for U, respectively. 
Therefore, the correct oxidation numbers are +1, +4, -2 for Rb, B, and S, respectively.

Determine the Correct Oxidation Numbers for All Three Elements in Rb2SO3

Determine the Correct Oxidation Numbers for All Three Elements in Rb₂SO₃