Sulfur (S)
Sulfur is element 16, a reactive nonmetal in period 3, group 16 of the periodic table. At room temperature it is a solid.
Electron configuration [Ne] 3s2 3p4
Electrons per shell 2, 8, 6
Sulfur data
| Atomic number | 16 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | S |
| Atomic mass | 32.065 u |
| Category | Reactive nonmetal |
| Group | 16 |
| Period | 3 |
| Block | p |
| State at 25 °C | solid |
| Melting point | 388 K (114.9 °C) |
| Boiling point | 718 K (444.9 °C) |
| Density | 1.96 g/cm³ |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | 2.58 |
| Atomic radius | 102 pm |
| 1st ionization energy | 1000 kJ/mol |
| Electron affinity | -200 kJ/mol |
| Oxidation states | -2, -1, +1, +2, +3, +4, +5, +6 |
| Common ion charge | 2− |
| Discovered | Known since antiquity |
Orbital diagram
Each box is one orbital holding up to two electrons of opposite spin. Following Hund’s rule, electrons spread out singly across a subshell before pairing.
Work through sulfur’s configuration and its ions →
Where sulfur sits
Sulfur belongs to the reactive nonmetals. Its Pauling electronegativity of 2.58 is mid-range; see the electronegativity chart and periodic trends for context. To use its mass in a calculation, try the molar mass calculator.
Sulfur FAQ
What is the electron configuration of sulfur?
Sulfur (Z = 16) has the configuration 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p4. In noble-gas shorthand that is [Ne] 3s2 3p4.
How many valence electrons does sulfur have?
6 (outer shell (n = 3)).
What is the atomic mass of sulfur?
The standard atomic weight of sulfur is 32.065 u, so one mole weighs 32.065 g.
Is sulfur a metal?
No. Sulfur is a reactive nonmetal.
What is the charge of a sulfur ion?
Sulfur most commonly forms S2−.