Question

What is the oxidation state of S in the following oxoacid?

Dithionic acid

Answer 1

Dithionic acid (H₂S2O₆)

2 × (+1) + 2 × (Oxidation state of S) + 6 × (−2) = 0

2 + 2x − 12 = 0

2x − 10 = 0

⇒ x = +5

Hence, the oxidation state of each ‘S’ in H₂S2O₆ is +5.