Why does a sulphate ion have the structure SO4?

Answer 1

Double bonds between sulfur and oxygen or carbon atoms can be found in compounds such as SO 2 and CS 2. But these double bonds are much weaker than the equivalent double bonds to oxygen atoms in O 3 or CO 2, which is why Sulfur is attracted to Oxygen.

Tails

Answer 2

The simple answer is that two of the oxygen atoms share two electrons with the sulphur atom, making double bonds. The other two oxygens share one oxygen with the sulphur atom, making single bonds. These two oxygens are then left with extra electrons that give the ion a 2- charge. In actual fact it's a little more complicated than this and the four oxygens share the negative charges. But unless you're studying advanced chemistry don't worry about this. Carl Piaf, Science Teacher, Sweden

Answer 3

The simple answer is that two of the oxygen atoms share two electrons with the sulphur atom, making double bonds. The other two oxygens share one oxygen with the sulphur atom, making single bonds. These two oxygens are then left with extra electrons that give the ion a 2- charge. In actual fact it's a little more complicated than this and the four oxygens share the negative charges. But unless you're studying advanced chemistry don't worry about this.