Question

How many hydrogen atoms are in the following molecule of ammonium sulfide? (NH4)2S

a. 2
b. 4
c. 8
d. 16

Answer 1

I agree with the first answer. I believe it’s C

Answer 2

`\boxed {\boxed {\sf C. \ 8 \ hydrogen \ atoms}}`

Step-by-step explanation:

There are "2 parts" to the molecule S(NH₄)₂

• The ammonium (NH₄)
• The sulfide (S)

Let's focus on the ammonium, since it contains the hydrogen.

There is 1 Nitrogen atom (no subscript) and 4 hydrogen atoms ( subscript of 4).

But, this is only for 1 molecule of ammonium. If we look back at the original molecule, there is a subscript of 2 around (NH₄). This indicates there are 2 molecules of ammonium.

There are 4 hydrogen atoms in 1 molecule. So, to find the number in 2 molecules, simply multiply 4 by 2.

• 4 H atoms in 1 molecule * 2 molecules = 8 H atoms

There are 8 hydrogen atoms in S(NH₄)₂