Which of the following is the number of protons in the sulfide ion, S^{2-}?

• A. 14
• B. 16
• C. 18
• D. 2

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the number of protons in an atom or ion is determined by its atomic number, which is unique to each element and does not change when the atom gains or loses electrons.
2. Identify the element in question: the sulfide ion is derived from sulfur, which has the chemical symbol S.
3. Look up the atomic number of sulfur on the periodic table; this number represents the number of protons in a sulfur atom.
4. Understand that the charge on the ion (2-) indicates the gain of two electrons, but this does not affect the number of protons.
5. Conclude that the number of protons in the sulfide ion S^{2-} is equal to the atomic number of sulfur.