What is the oxidation number for S in MgSO4?

Answer 1

Mg has +2, S has +6, O has -2

Explanation: O (oxygen) generally has -2 oxidation state ( exceptions exist like peroxides)

Mg(magnesium) is an alkaline earth metal which has fixed oxidation state of +2 in its compunds.

S(sulphur) shows variable oxidation state..

To get its oxidation state: we use the fact the total sum of oxidation state of all atoms in a compound is zero. For ions this sum is equal to the charge on the ion.

Let oxidation state of S be x.

Then we have: +2 (for Mg) + (-2)*4(for 4 O atoms) + x = 0

Which gives x=+6.

Answer 2

+2 for Mg

-2 for each O

+6 for S

Answer 3

+2 for Mg

+6 for S

-2 for each O

+1 for H

Answer 4

Each O is -2, for a total of -8. Mg is +2. Therefore, S is +6 (because the whole thing must add up to 0).

Answer 5

The oxidation number for the atoms in magnesium sulfite are: Mg+2, S+4, O-2. The sum of the oxidation numbers in a neutral compound is 0.

Answer 6

MgSO4

O.S. of Mg = +2

O.S. of S = +6

O.S. of O = -2