What is ZnS? Important knowledge about ZnS

1. Definition of ZnS

ZnS, also known as zinc sulfide in English, is an inorganic chemical compound belonging to the IV-VI group, with a molecular weight of 97.47 g/mol. The molecule contains one zinc atom (Zn) and one sulfur atom (S), bonded together by covalent bonds. ZnS typically exists in the form of Zn₂+ and S₂- ions.

2. Properties of ZnS

ZnS is solid at room temperature, with a white or pale brown color. It does not have a characteristic smell and cannot determine pH in solid form. ZnS is insoluble in water but soluble in acid. In the air, ZnS can be oxidized to SO₂ and ZnO.

3. Common Chemical Equations of ZnS

ZnS participates in many important reactions. Some examples are:

• Reaction with strong acid (for example: hydrochloric acid) to produce zinc chloride and sulfur: ZnS + 2HCl -> ZnCl₂ + S↑
• Reaction with oxygen in the air to produce zinc oxide and sulfur dioxide: 2ZnS + 3O₂ -> 2ZnO + 2SO₂
• Reaction with iron ore to produce zinc ferrite and sulfur: ZnS + Fe₂O₃ -> ZnFe₂O₄ + S

4. Synthesis of ZnS

ZnS can be synthesized at both the laboratory and industrial scale. In the lab, it is often created from zinc and sulfur: Zn + S -> ZnS. At the industrial scale, ZnS is usually produced from zinc ore containing sulfur, through the smelting process.