The valency of sulfur (sulphur) can vary depending on the compounds it forms. Generally, sulfur can exhibit several oxidation states that correspond to its valency:
- -2: In sulfide compounds (e.g., H₂S), sulfur has a valency of -2.
- +4: In compounds like sulfur dioxide (SO₂), sulfur has a valency of +4.
- +6: In compounds such as sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) or sulfate ions (SO₄²⁻), sulfur exhibits a valency of +6.
Therefore, sulfur can have valencies of -2, +4, and +6 depending on the context of the chemical reactions and the compounds it forms.
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