Sulphide facts for kids

A sulphide (also spelled sulfide in US English) is a special kind of chemical compound. It contains sulphur (or sulfur) in its lowest possible oxidation number, which is -2. Think of it as a sulphur atom that has gained two extra electrons, making it a negatively charged particle called an anion.

Sulphides are often known for their strong, sometimes unpleasant, smells. A common example is hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), which smells like rotten eggs.

The specific particle called a dianion (S^2-) only exists in water solutions that are very alkaline (the opposite of acidic).

What is Sulphide?

A sulphide is a chemical compound that always includes the element sulphur. In these compounds, the sulphur atom has a special electrical charge of -2. This means it has two extra electrons compared to a neutral sulphur atom. When an atom or group of atoms has an electrical charge, it's called an anion if the charge is negative.

Sulphides are found naturally in many places. They are important in geology, biology, and chemistry.

Sulphides and Their Smells

Many sulphide compounds are famous for their strong smells. These smells can be quite bad, like rotten eggs. This is because of a gas called hydrogen sulphide (H₂S). This gas is produced when organic matter (like plants or animals) breaks down without much oxygen.

Another type of compound related to sulphides are called thioethers. These are also known for their distinct and often strong odours.

Where Do We Find Sulphides?

Sulphides are all around us! They are found in:

• Minerals: Many important minerals are sulphides. For example, Pyrite (often called "fool's gold") is iron sulphide. Other metal sulphides include Galena (lead sulphide) and Sphalerite (zinc sulphide). These minerals are often mined for the metals they contain.
• Volcanoes: Volcanic gases often contain hydrogen sulphide. This is why areas near volcanoes can have a strong, eggy smell.
• Swamps and Sewers: When organic material decays in places without much oxygen, like swamps or sewers, hydrogen sulphide gas is produced. This is what causes the bad smell in these areas.
• Our Bodies: Small amounts of sulphides are also found in our bodies and play a role in some biological processes.

Different Kinds of Sulphides

There are many different types of sulphides, depending on what other elements they are combined with.

• Hydrogen Sulphide (H₂S): This is a gas that smells like rotten eggs. It's important in many natural processes but can be dangerous in large amounts.
• Metal Sulphides: These are compounds where sulphur is combined with a metal, like iron, lead, or zinc. Many of these are solid minerals.
• Organic Sulphides (Thioethers): These are compounds where sulphur is part of a larger molecule that also contains carbon. They are often found in things like garlic and onions, contributing to their unique smells.

See also

In Spanish: Sulfuro para niños