Question

The following element forms a molecule with eight its own weight atom?
A) Si
B) S
C) Cl
D) P

Answer 1

Hint: Catenation is the property of an atom to combine with itself. Some examples of atoms that show the property of catenation are carbon, sulphur etc. Here, we have to find the element that combines with itself to give an atomic molecule.

Complete step by step solution:Let’s discuss the molecule of sulphur in detail. We know, Sulphur is an element whose atomic number is 16. It is non-metal and belongs to the group of 16 of the periodic table. It is one of the most reactive elements. The pure sulphur has no taste, no odour and a brittle solid of pale yellow colour. It is a poor conductor of electricity and insoluble in water. It almost reacts with all metals except platinum and gold. It forms sulphuides. It also forms many compounds with other non-metals. Every year, tons of sulphur are produced. And most of the production is done for the manufacturing of sulphuric acid. The sulphur has the configuration of 2,8,6. So, an atom of Sulphur has six numbers of valence electrons.
Let’s understand the molecule of sulphur. It is a molecule of eight sulphur atoms. Therefore, it is chemically represented as S₈ .

Hence, option B is right.

Note: Sulphur is widely used in many chemical industries and its wide use indicates the industrial activity and the national economy of the state. Its use is mainly to produce sulphuric acid which is used in many industries.