What is the chemical formula for lead(IV) sulfide?

What is the chemical formula for lead(IV) sulfide?

• A. PbS
• B. PbS2
• C. Pb2S4
• D. Pb2S

Answer: (B)

The correct chemical formula for lead(IV) sulfide is indeed PbS2. In this compound, lead is in the +4 oxidation state, as indicated by the Roman numeral IV in its name. Sulfur typically has a -2 oxidation state. To achieve electrical neutrality in the compound, the total positive charge from lead must balance the total negative charge from sulfur. Since one lead ion contributes a +4 charge, two sulfide ions (each with a -2 charge) are required to balance it out. This results in: \[ +4 \, \text{(from Pb)} + (-2) + (-2) \, \text{(from 2 S)} = 0 \] Thus, the presence of two sulfur atoms leads to the formula PbS2, where lead(IV) sulfide is formed with one lead ion and two sulfide ions.

The correct chemical formula for lead(IV) sulfide is indeed PbS2. In this compound, lead is in the +4 oxidation state, as indicated by the Roman numeral IV in its name. Sulfur typically has a -2 oxidation state.

To achieve electrical neutrality in the compound, the total positive charge from lead must balance the total negative charge from sulfur. Since one lead ion contributes a +4 charge, two sulfide ions (each with a -2 charge) are required to balance it out. This results in:

[ +4 , \text{(from Pb)} + (-2) + (-2) , \text{(from 2 S)} = 0 ]

Thus, the presence of two sulfur atoms leads to the formula PbS2, where lead(IV) sulfide is formed with one lead ion and two sulfide ions.