What is the sigma bond count for 2 hydrogen in sulfuric acid?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the sigma bond count for the hydrogen atoms in sulfuric acid (H2SO4). Participants explore the bonding structure and electron count associated with the molecule, considering both sigma and pi bonds.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant attempts to calculate the total number of bonds in H2SO4 using VSEPR theory, noting the contributions from sulfur, oxygen, and hydrogen.
  • Another participant describes the bonding in the sulfate ion (SO4(-2)), suggesting that sulfur is the central atom with specific bonding arrangements involving pi and sigma bonds, and indicates that hydrogen atoms are bonded to oxygen atoms.
  • A third participant reiterates the bonding description but expresses confusion over the total electron count, indicating discrepancies in their calculations regarding sigma and pi bonds.
  • A hint is provided to consider the electron count and the charge on sulfuric acid, suggesting that this may clarify the bonding situation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the sigma bond count for the hydrogen atoms in sulfuric acid, and there are multiple competing views regarding the bonding structure and calculations.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the electron count and bonding arrangements, indicating potential limitations in their calculations and assumptions regarding the charges and types of bonds.

FBInstant
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I tried to use VSERP to draw the shape of H2SO4
but consider
S :6 (group6)
4O :2*4
2H :1*2
-----------
16=>4pi bond
but then 4 pi bond of oxygen=16 electrons
how about the sigma bond of 2 hydrogen
 
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From memory SO4(-2) has the S as the central atom, two O's oppositely have a pi bond, and the remaining two have sigma bonds each with a negative charge. The H's are attached to these O's.
 
thunderfvck said:
From memory SO4(-2) has the S as the central atom, two O's oppositely have a pi bond, and the remaining two have sigma bonds each with a negative charge. The H's are attached to these O's.
but then it becomes
S:6
2O:1*2(sigma)
2O:2*2(pi)
2H:1*2
----------
14
but 2pi+4sigma=16
again, it does not work
 
Hint: Look at your electron count and then look at the charge on sulfuric acid.
 

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