In a molecule of lithium sulfide, there are two atoms of lithium and one atom of sulfur. Which statement about lithium sulfide is correct?

1 answer

In a molecule of lithium sulfide (Li₂S), there are indeed two lithium (Li) atoms and one sulfur (S) atom. The following statements about lithium sulfide are correct:

  1. Ionic Compound: Lithium sulfide is an ionic compound formed from lithium ions (Li⁺) and sulfide ions (S²⁻). Lithium donates one electron to form cations, while sulfur accepts two electrons to form an anion.

  2. Chemical Formula: The correct chemical formula for lithium sulfide is Li₂S, reflecting the ratio of lithium to sulfur.

  3. Physical State: At room temperature, lithium sulfide is typically a crystalline solid.

  4. Properties: It generally has a high melting point due to the strong electrostatic forces between the lithium ions and the sulfide ions.

The key takeaway is that lithium sulfide consists of two lithium ions and one sulfide ion, forming an ionic compound with its specific properties.