Question

In writing and balancing equations using sulfur chemists usually use the empirical formula, S, rather than the molecular formula. Why?

I'm not sure how to answer this question.

Answer 1

It makes no difference on the proudcts, nor reactants. There is no difference in mass comparing 8S to S₈ or any other forms of naturally occuring sulfur.

Answer 2

S is easier to work with than S8
If you really want to know how many mols of S8 you used, multiply S and the rest of the balanced equation by 8 by 8
Here is the long answer:-)
http://www.ibchem.com/faq/2008/09/18/what-is-the-molecular-formula-of-sulphur/