Chemical Elements History and Information Sulfur

About the chemical element Sulfur, its symbol, atomic number and weight, who discovered it and when.

The Atomic Elements and Their Uses

(Element) (Symbol) (Atomic number) (Atomic weight)

Sulfur S 16 32.06

Known since prehistoric times. The horrible stink emanating from rotten eggs and from some hot springs is hydrogen sulfide (H2S). Sulfur deposits are often found near oil deposits and are an old-fashioned clue to their whereabouts. Sulfur is a major constituent of gunpowder, in the proportion of 10 parts sulfur, 7 parts saltpeter, and 15 parts charcoal.