Atomic Number
16
Element 16
Sulfur (S)
Sulfur is a chemical element with symbol S and atomic number 16. It is abundant, multivalent, and nonmetallic.
Atomic Mass
32.06 u
Category
Nonmetal
Period
3
Group
Group 16: oxygen group
Phase
solid
Density
2.07 g/cm3
Electron Shells
2, 8, 6
Atomic Structure
Protons: 16. Electrons: 16. Neutrons: Varies by isotope.
Electron configuration: 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁴
Why Sulfur Matters
Sulfur helps connect atomic number 16, nonmetal behavior, period 3 trends, and electron shell structure. Its solid phase, atomic mass of 32.06 u, and electron configuration 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁴ make it useful for comparing bonding patterns across the periodic table.
Discovery and Occurrence
Sulfur was discovered Unknown. Sulfur is a chemical element with symbol S and atomic number 16. It is abundant, multivalent, and nonmetallic.
Safety and Handling Context
Sulfur is presented here for learning and comparison. Pure elements and laboratory compounds can have hazards that depend on dose, form, and setting.
Related Elements
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the atomic number of Sulfur?
- Sulfur has atomic number 16, which means a neutral atom has 16 protons and 16 electrons.
- What is the chemical symbol for Sulfur?
- The chemical symbol for Sulfur is S.
- What category is Sulfur in?
- Sulfur is classified as a nonmetal and sits in period 3 of the periodic table.
Explore Sulfur in 3D
Use the interactive table above to rotate atomic models, compare periodic trends, and move from Sulfur to neighboring elements without losing your place.