What is the formula for magnesium sulfide
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: The chemical formula for magnesium sulfide is MgS.
Explanation:
Magnesium sulfide is an ionic compound formed from the elements magnesium and sulfur. To understand how the formula MgS is derived, it is important to consider the charges of the individual ions involved.
Magnesium is a metal found in Group 2 of the periodic table. Elements in this group are known as alkaline earth metals and commonly lose two electrons when forming compounds. When magnesium loses two electrons, it forms a cation with a +2 charge, written as Mg²⁺.
Sulfur is a nonmetal located in Group 16 of the periodic table. Elements in this group typically gain two electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration. When sulfur gains two electrons, it forms an anion with a -2 charge, written as S²⁻.
When these ions combine to form a compound, the total positive charge must balance the total negative charge. In the case of magnesium (Mg²⁺) and sulfur (S²⁻), the charges are equal in magnitude but opposite in sign. Therefore, one magnesium ion will combine with one sulfide ion to balance the charges. This results in the formula MgS, indicating that the compound consists of one magnesium ion and one sulfide ion.
Magnesium sulfide is a white crystalline solid and is typically formed during the reaction of magnesium with sulfur, especially at high temperatures. This compound is used in a variety of chemical processes, including as a component in some phosphors and in metallurgy.
Understanding ionic compounds like MgS involves recognizing how elements interact based on their electron configurations and charge tendencies. The goal in ionic bonding is always to reach a stable electronic arrangement, usually by achieving full outer electron shells, which in turn leads to electrically neutral compounds.