Question:

What are the respective oxidation states of sulphur atoms numbered 1 to 4 in tetrathionate ion as shown below?

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Sulphur bonded to oxygen → high oxidation state; S–S bonded sulphur → lower or zero oxidation state.
Updated On: Apr 26, 2026
  • \(0, +5, +5, 0\)
  • \(+5, 0, 0, +5\)
  • \(+2, 0, 0, +2\)
  • \(+2, -1, -1, +2\)
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Concept:
In tetrathionate ion \((\text{S}_4\text{O}_6^{2-})\), oxidation states depend on bonding:
  • Sulphur bonded to oxygen → higher oxidation state
  • Sulphur bonded only to sulphur → lower oxidation state
Step 1: Identify terminal sulphur atoms (1 and 4). These sulphur atoms are bonded to oxygen atoms. Each has oxidation state: \[ +5 \]
Step 2: Identify middle sulphur atoms (2 and 3). These sulphur atoms are bonded only to sulphur atoms. Thus their oxidation state: \[ 0 \]
Step 3: Conclusion. \[ (+5, 0, 0, +5) \]
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