Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for lead(II) sulfide?

• A. PbS2
• B. Pb2S3
• C. Pb2S
• D. PbS

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the ions involved in lead(II) sulfide: lead(II) ion is Pb^{2+} and sulfide ion is S^{2-}.
2. Write the charges of each ion: Pb^{2+} has a charge of +2, and S^{2-} has a charge of -2.
3. Determine the ratio of ions needed to balance the charges so the compound is electrically neutral.
4. Since the charges are equal and opposite (+2 and -2), one Pb^{2+} ion will balance with one S^{2-} ion.
5. Write the chemical formula by combining one Pb^{2+} ion and one S^{2-} ion, resulting in PbS.