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S
16 polyatomic nonmetal Generated with AI

Sulfur

Symbol S
Atomic Mass 32.06

Sulfur or sulphur (see spelling differences) is a chemical element with symbol S and atomic number 16. It is an abundant, multivalent non-metal. Under normal conditions, sulfur atoms form cyclic octatomic molecules with chemical formula S8.

Properties

  • Phase: Solid
  • Density: 2.07 g/cm³
  • Melting Point: 388.36 K
  • Boiling Point: 717.8 K

Uses

  • Gunpowder and other pyrotechnic mixtures
  • Sulfuric acid production
  • Fertilizers and soil amendments
  • Rubber vulcanization
  • Matches and insecticides

Extraction Process

Sulfur is collected from native deposits in volcanic or evaporite regions, or recovered by roasting sulfide ores and refining sulfur-containing fossil fuels to capture elemental sulfur.

Extraction / Obtención

Mined from native sulfur near volcanic deposits or recovered from sulfide ores and fossil fuels through roasting and refining.