Question & Answer » Chemistry Questions » What is the Oxidation Number for Sulfur? Give examples

What is the Oxidation Number for Sulfur? Give examples

Answer: The oxidation number of sulfur is variable. It varies from compound to compound. Some examples are given to illustrate the variable oxidation states of sulfur. 

  • The oxidation number is +6 in H2SO4.
  • The oxidation number is +5 in Na2S2O6.
  • The oxidation number is +4 in H2SO3.
  • The oxidation number is +2 in Na2S2O3. 
  • The oxidation number is 0 in S8.
  • The oxidation number is -2 in H2S.