Study Guides/Chemistry/Atomic Number of Sulphur
Study Guide · Chemistry

Atomic Number of Sulphur (S) and Its Properties

Sulphur (S) is a bright yellow, non-metallic element that is one of the most chemically versatile elements on Earth. It is element number 16 on the periodic table.

Question (Click to Flip)

What is the atomic number of sulphur?

Answer

The atomic number of sulphur is 16.

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Key Facts

Atomic Number: 16.

Atomic Mass: 32 u.

Electronic Configuration: 2, 8, 6.

Valency: 2 or 6 (variable).

Key Compound: H₂SO₄ — 'King of Chemicals'.

Key Properties of Sulphur

PropertyValue
SymbolS
Atomic Number16
Atomic Mass32 u
Electronic Configuration2, 8, 6
Valency2 or 6 (variable)
GroupGroup 16 (Chalcogens)
PeriodPeriod 3

Why Does Sulphur have Variable Valency?

Sulphur has 6 electrons in its outermost shell (config: 2,8,6). It can either:

  • Gain 2 electrons → Valency = 2 (forms S²⁻ ion, as in H₂S)
  • Lose 6 electrons → Valency = 6 (forms SO₃, H₂SO₄)

Important Sulphur Compounds

  • H₂S (Hydrogen Sulphide): Rotten egg smell gas.
  • SO₂ (Sulphur Dioxide): Causes acid rain.
  • H₂SO₄ (Sulphuric Acid): Most important industrial acid — 'King of Chemicals'.
  • Na₂SO₄ (Sodium Sulphate): Used in detergents.

Questions and Answers

What is the atomic number of sulphur?+

The atomic number of sulphur is 16.

What is the electronic configuration of sulphur?+

Sulphur's electronic configuration is 2, 8, 6.

What is the valency of sulphur?+

Sulphur has variable valency — it can be 2 or 6.

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