Question

The atomicity of Sulphur in orthorhombic Sulphur is
A. 8
B. 6
C. 4
D. 2

Answer 1

Hint: Atomicity is the number of atoms present of that element present in a compound or molecule.
For example, the \[{{O}_{2}}\] molecules have 2 atoms of oxygen and ozone have 3 atoms of oxygen.


Complete step by step answer:
Element Sulphur exists in many allotropic forms. It is a second element after Carbon which shows allotropic forms. The allotropes of Sulphur exist in polymorphic forms. The allotropes were found in the very early period when the science was not quite developed therefore, the chemical importance of Sulphur atoms was not known till that time as Sulphur has many commercial uses.
So, the allotropes were given names based on their appearance or after the scientist’s name like “mother of pearl sulfur” or “Engel’s sulfur”. The most common form of Sulphur allotropes is orthorhombic Sulphur or \[{{S}_{8}}\] which is in the form of a crown. Five allotropes of Sulphur are formed under high pressure two of which are metallic.

The allotropes of sulfur can be dissolved into organic liquids, unlike other element allotropes. The orthorhombic Sulphur is very stable at room temperature and high pressure due to the presence of the S-S bond. Due to the crown shape it forms, hence there are 8 atoms of the Sulphur present in this form and that’s why its atomicity is 8.
So, the correct answer is “Option A”.

Note: Allotropy is a property of some elements where the element can exist in two or more forms with the same physical state. For example, like Carbon and Sulphur.