Pyrite is a mineral often FeS2 mistaken for gold by the inexperienced. It is not an elemental metal at all, but a compound. How many atoms are required to make pyrite?

Answer 1

Pyrite, with the chemical formula FeS₂, is composed of one iron (Fe) atom and two sulfur (S) atoms. To determine the total number of atoms in a single formula unit of pyrite, you simply add the atoms together:

• 1 Fe atom
• 2 S atoms

So, the total number of atoms in one formula unit of pyrite is:

1 (Fe) + 2 (S) = 3 atoms.

Therefore, three atoms are required to make pyrite.