How many valence electrons are in the sulfate ion SO4^2−?

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Multiple Choice

How many valence electrons are in the sulfate ion SO4^2−?

Explanation:
Valence-electron counting for a polyatomic ion starts with adding up the outer-shell electrons from each atom and then adjusting for the ion’s charge. Sulfur contributes 6 valence electrons, and each of the four oxygens contributes 6, giving 6 + 24 = 30. The ion has a 2− charge, so add 2 more electrons. Total valence electrons = 30 + 2 = 32. In the Lewis structure these 32 electrons are used to form the S–O bonds and the lone pairs, with the negative charge delocalized over the oxygens. So there are 32 valence electrons.

Valence-electron counting for a polyatomic ion starts with adding up the outer-shell electrons from each atom and then adjusting for the ion’s charge. Sulfur contributes 6 valence electrons, and each of the four oxygens contributes 6, giving 6 + 24 = 30. The ion has a 2− charge, so add 2 more electrons. Total valence electrons = 30 + 2 = 32. In the Lewis structure these 32 electrons are used to form the S–O bonds and the lone pairs, with the negative charge delocalized over the oxygens. So there are 32 valence electrons.

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