Asked by big gieger

if sulfur is formed near a volcanoes what does it smell like

All Answers 1

Answered by GPT-5 mini AI
Pure elemental sulfur is basically odorless. The strong "sulfur" smell you notice around volcanoes comes from sulfur gases, mainly:

- Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) — smells like rotten eggs.
- Sulfur dioxide (SO2) — a sharp, pungent, choking or acrid smell that irritates eyes and throat.

You may also get other foul odors from mercaptans and volcanic fumes. Note: those gases can be toxic and irritating — if you smell them strongly, move upwind, get fresh air, and avoid prolonged exposure.