Predicting redox properties from oxidation state
Most p-block elements have both positive and negative oxidation states.
The common oxidation states for the Group 16 element sulfur are given in the table below.
In general for non-metallic elements like sulfur:
As shown in the sulfur example, atoms of an element in the
For a redox reaction to occur
The common oxidation states for the Group 16 element sulfur are given in the table below.
| S(+6) HSO4- | oxidant  | |
| S(+4) H2SO3 | reductant | oxidant |
| S(0) S8 | reductant | oxidant |
| S(-2) H2S | reductant |
In general for non-metallic elements like sulfur:
The maximum is the last digit of the Group Number in the periodic table (except for O and F that have 0 as the maximum).
The minimum is equal to the Group Number minus 18.
The minimum is equal to the Group Number minus 18.
As shown in the sulfur example, atoms of an element in the
maximum oxidation state can only react as oxidants (accept electrons).
minimum oxidation state can only react as reductants (donate electrons).
intermediate oxidation states can react as either oxidants or reductants.
minimum oxidation state can only react as reductants (donate electrons).
intermediate oxidation states can react as either oxidants or reductants.
For a redox reaction to occur
one of the reactants must be capable of acting as an oxidant and
another reactant must be capable of acting as a reductant.
another reactant must be capable of acting as a reductant.