What ions are formed with magnesium and sulfur?

Answer 1

Magnesium is located in Group II in the Periodic Table. Every element in Group II will form an ion with the charge of 2+ by losing two electrons. Hence, magnesium will form the magnesium ion: Mg2+. Sulfur is located in Group VI in the periodic table. Every element in Group VI will form an ion with the charge of 2- by gaining two electron. Hence, sulfur will form the sulfur ion: S2-.

Answer 2

Magnesium typically forms Mg2+ ions, while sulfur typically forms S2- ions. When magnesium and sulfur combine in a compound, they usually form magnesium sulfide (MgS), in which magnesium has a 2+ charge and sulfur has a 2- charge.