Barium Sulfide Formula

Barium sulfide, also known as thioxobarium, is an inorganic salt that is used in the manufacturing of electronic devices and also in the production of other barium compounds.

Formula and structure: The barium sulfide chemical formula is BaS. The molar mass is 169.39 g/mol. The molecule is formed by one barium cation Ba²⁺ and one sulfide anion S^2-. The two ions are bound trough an ionic bond. The geometry of the molecule is octahedral with one cation surrounded by eight anions and vice versa. Its chemical structure can be written as below, in the common representations used for organic molecules.

Occurrence:It is not found in nature. Barium sulfide is produced as described below.

Preparation: Barium sulfide is prepared through the Casciarolus' process using coke as a source of carbon and also using the cheap and largely available barium sulfate:

BaSO₄ + 2 C → BaS + 2 CO₂

Physical properties: Barium sulfide is a white solid. It is phosphorescent. The density of this salt is 4.25 g/mL. Its melting point is 2235 °C and above this temperature, it decomposes. Barium sulfide is slightly soluble in cold water but it is highly solubility in hot water. It is insoluble in ethanol and organic solvents.

Chemical properties: Barium sulfide exhibits the characteristic properties of other sulfides; it shows interesting behavior against the light. First, barium sulfides can deviate X-rays, so it is used in biomedical application to check tissues in details. It can also emit in short wavelength, so it is used in electronics equipments.

Uses: Barium sulfide is used as source for preparing other barium compounds such as the barium carbonate or barium sulfate. It is particularly used in the preparation of the pigment lithopone, which is a mixture of barium sulfate and zinc sulfide.

BaS + ZnSO₄ → ZnS · BaSO₄

To be used in the manufacturing of pigments, it should be in a pure form, due to some impurities can give color to the material. It is also used in the manufacturing of electronic devices for being a short wavelength emitter.

Health effects / safety hazards: Barium sulfide is extremely poisonous and can release toxic fumes. It is toxic for the aquatic life and environment. Barium sulfide is flammable and can react violently with water.