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Question
Unknown element X is a metal that ionically bonds to sulfur.

Is the formula, X3S feasible? Why or why not?
Responses
A It is feasible. The three metallic ions each receive an electron from sulfur.It is feasible. The three metallic ions each receive an electron from sulfur.
B No, it is not feasible. Sulfur cannot give three electrons to the metal since the sulfide ion has a -2 charge.No, it is not feasible. Sulfur cannot give three electrons to the metal since the sulfide ion has a -2 charge.
C No, it is not feasible. The metallic ion X only has one valence electron and the sulfide ion receives two electrons.No, it is not feasible. The metallic ion X only has one valence electron and the sulfide ion receives two electrons.
D No, it is not feasible. Three metallic ions cannot provide the exact number of electrons that one sulfur needs for the ionic bond.

Answer 1

The correct response is B: No, it is not feasible. Sulfur cannot give three electrons to the metal since the sulfide ion has a -2 charge.

Here's the reasoning:

• Sulfur has a valence of -2 when it forms sulfide ions (S²⁻), meaning it accepts two electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration.
• If we consider X in the formula X₃S, we would need three X ions to provide two electrons total to balance the two electrons needed for S. Thus, each X would need to provide 2/3 of an electron, which is not possible in a conventional ionic bond.
• Additionally, if X were divalent (having a charge of +2), then the correct formula would be XS instead of X₃S.

Thus, both from the perspective of electron transfer and charge balance, the formula X₃S is not feasible.