Formation of Zinc Sulfide

Zn + S → ZnS

Overview

Zinc and sulfur react when ignited to form zinc sulfide with a bright flash. Zinc sulfide is a luminescent material that glows when exposed to UV light. The mineral form, sphalerite, is the most important ore of zinc worldwide.

Participants

Role Substance Coefficient State
Reactant Zinc Zn 1 (s)
Reactant Sulfur S 1 (s)

Everyday Example

Glow-in-the-dark paint and watch dials historically contained zinc sulfide as the phosphorescent material.

Industrial Importance

Zinc sulfide is used in phosphorescent coatings, X-ray and television screens, and as a precursor to zinc metal extraction. Sphalerite mining is the primary source of zinc globally.

Properties

Type
Synthesis
Reversible
No
Energy
Exothermic
ΔH
-205.0 kJ/mol

Related Reactions

Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General) Formation of Aluminum Oxide Formation of Ammonia (Haber Process) Formation of Barium Oxide Formation of Barium Sulfate Formation of Beryllium Oxide Formation of Cadmium Oxide Formation of Calcium Carbonate from Oxides Formation of Calcium Hydroxide Formation of Calcium Oxide (Quicklime)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Formation of Zinc Sulfide?
The balanced equation is: Zn + S → ZnS.
What type of reaction is Formation of Zinc Sulfide?
Formation of Zinc Sulfide is a synthesis reaction.
Is Formation of Zinc Sulfide exothermic or endothermic?
Formation of Zinc Sulfide is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -205.0 kJ/mol.