How many valence electrons does a sulfur (S) atom have?

• A. 4
• B. 2
• C. 8
• D. 6

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the element sulfur (S) on the periodic table. Sulfur is in period 3 and group 16 (or VIA) of the periodic table.
2. Recall that the group number for main group elements indicates the number of valence electrons. For group 16 elements, the number of valence electrons is 6.
3. Understand that valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost shell (energy level) of an atom that participate in chemical bonding.
4. Confirm by writing the electron configuration of sulfur: \$1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^4$. The electrons in the third shell (3s and 3p orbitals) are the valence electrons.
5. Count the electrons in the outermost shell: \$3s^2\( (2 electrons) plus \)3p^4$ (4 electrons) equals 6 valence electrons.