- Sulfur forms sulfides with atoms that readily donate electrons, such as sodium, calcium, hydrogen or barium. It may also form the sulfide of non-elemental ions, such as ammonium: NH4+.
- Organic sulfides exist, though the name is misleading because most are not ionic. Dimethyl sulfide, CH3-S-CH3, is the sulfur analog--i.e. structurally similar--of dimethyl ether, CH3-O-CH3.
- Volatile compounds of sulfur usually are foul smelling. One such compound is hydrogen sulfide, which has the aroma of rotten eggs. Historically, paper mills have given off various sulfides and other sulfur-based pollutants.
- Sulfur compounds, including volatile sulfides, are the cause of much of the black tarnish on silver tableware and jewelry.
- Many sulfur compounds possess germicidal properties. They have been widely used in the treatment of an assortment of skin conditions because they cause few serious side effects.
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