Does sulfur gain or lose electrons?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking whether sulfur tends to gain or lose electrons in chemical reactions, which relates to its behavior as an element in various chemical compounds and its position in the periodic table.
Answer
Sulfur gains 2 electrons.
The final answer is that sulfur tends to gain 2 electrons to form a sulfide ion (S²⁻).
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is that sulfur tends to gain 2 electrons to form a sulfide ion (S²⁻).
More Information
Sulfur (S) typically gains 2 electrons to achieve a stable octet configuration, forming the sulfide ion (S²⁻). This process helps it achieve a more stable, noble gas electron configuration.
Tips
A common mistake is thinking sulfur can lose or share electrons instead of gaining them to complete its octet. Always consider the octet rule and the nature of nonmetals when addressing such questions.
Sources
- How many electrons will sulfur gain in forming an ion? - homework.study.com
- Based on the electron configuration of sulfur, S, a sulfur atom will ... - socratic.org
- What stable ion sulfur should form based on its electron configuration? - socratic.org
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