The atomic number of sulfur is 16. Sulfur combines with hydrogen by covalent bonding to form a compound, hydrogen sulfide. Based on the number of valence electrons in a sulfur atom, predict the molecular formula of the compound.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sulfur has 6 valence electrons and hydrogen has 1 valence electron. To form a stable compound, sulfur needs two additional electrons while hydrogen needs one additional electron. Therefore, the compound will have a formula of H2S, where the two hydrogen atoms share one electron with the sulfur atom to form two covalent bonds. Choice C is the only option that matches this formula.

The Atomic Number of Sulfur Is 16