What happens when two atoms of potassium react with one atom of sulphur?

Bonding between this compound will be ionic as potassium is a metal and sulphur is a non-metal.Therefore electrons are transferred from potassium to sulphur as metals must lose electrons to gain a full outer shell. Two potassium atoms each lose one electron, as each atom only has one electron to lose in its outer shell.This forms K+ ions, each with a 1+ charge.One sulphur atom can gain 2 electrons.This therefore form one S2-, with a 2- charge.

AS
Answered by Amrit S. Chemistry tutor

7598 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between covalent compounds and ionic compounds?


Why are metals good conductors?


Calculate the mass of copper oxide required to produce 24.95 g of copper sulfate crystals (CuSO4.5H2O).


What is a mole?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning