determine the formula for a compound formed between lithium and sulfur.

Responses
A Li2S
Li 2 S
B Li3SLi 3 S
C LiSLiS
D LiS2

1 answer

To determine the formula for the compound formed between lithium (Li) and sulfur (S), we first need to look at the valences of each element.

Lithium has a valence of +1, as it is an alkali metal. Sulfur typically has a valence of -2. To form a neutral compound, we need two lithium ions to balance one sulfur ion:

  • 2 Li^+ (from the two lithium atoms) = +2 charge
  • 1 S^2- (from one sulfur atom) = -2 charge

Thus, the correct empirical formula for the compound is \( \text{Li}_2\text{S} \).

Therefore, the answer is:

A: Li2S