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Multiple Choice
Sulfur is classified as which type of element, and how many valence electrons does a sulfur atom possess?
A
Nonmetal; 6 valence electrons
B
Metal; 8 valence electrons
C
Metal; 2 valence electrons
D
Nonmetal; 4 valence electrons
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the position of sulfur on the periodic table. Sulfur is located in group 16 (also called group VIA) and period 3.
Determine the classification of sulfur based on its position. Elements in groups 14-18 on the right side of the periodic table (except the noble gases) are generally nonmetals, so sulfur is a nonmetal.
Recall that the group number for main group elements corresponds to the number of valence electrons. Since sulfur is in group 16, it has 6 valence electrons.
Summarize the findings: sulfur is a nonmetal with 6 valence electrons.
Use this information to select the correct answer choice: 'Nonmetal; 6 valence electrons'.