Does sulfur lose or gain electrons?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking whether sulfur tends to lose or gain electrons in chemical reactions. This relates to its behavior in forming bonds, specifically whether it acts as an electron donor or acceptor.
Answer
Gain 2 electrons
Sulfur tends to gain 2 electrons to form a sulfide ion (S²⁻).
Answer for screen readers
Sulfur tends to gain 2 electrons to form a sulfide ion (S²⁻).
More Information
Sulfur, being a nonmetal, tends to gain electrons to achieve a stable octet configuration similar to noble gases. It commonly gains 2 electrons to complete its valence shell, forming the S²⁻ ion.
Tips
Common mistake is to assume sulfur loses electrons since some elements do. Remember that nonmetals like sulfur typically gain electrons.
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
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