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What is the crystal type of zinc sulfide

Zinc sulfide is an atomic crystal. Zinc sulfide (ZnS) is not an ionic crystal because the difference in electronegativity between


Zinc sulfide is an atomic crystal. Zinc sulfide (ZnS) is not an ionic crystal, but an atomic crystal, because the difference in electronegativity between Zn-S is too small, far less than the minimum of 1.7 for forming ionic bonds, and can only form covalent bonds. Zinc sulfide forms a spatial network structure, similar to SiC, and is therefore classified as an atomic crystal. ‌

The physical and chemical properties of zinc sulfide
Physical properties: Zinc sulfide is a white or slightly yellow powder that is stable in dry air. It darkens in color and gradually oxidizes to zinc sulfate when exposed to humid air or moisture for a long time. ‌
Chemical properties: The chemical formula of zinc sulfide is ZnS, which is an inorganic compound. Its melting point is 1700 ℃ and its density is 4.09 g/cm ³.
Crystal structure of zinc sulfide
Zinc sulfide has two main crystal structures: cubic zinc sulfide and hexagonal zinc sulfide. Cubic zinc sulfide, also known as sphalerite, can be viewed as the densest packing of S atoms in a cube, while Zn atoms occupy half of the tetrahedral voids to form. This structure helps to reduce the repulsive force between Zn atoms, which is beneficial for the stability of the crystal. ‌

Application of Zinc Sulfide
Fluorescent materials: The research on zinc sulfide fluorescent materials has a long history, dating back over 130 years since its discovery by French chemist Sidot in 1868. From the 1920s to the 1940s, research on zinc sulfide materials received continuous attention.
Electronic and optical applications: Zinc sulfide has a wide range of applications in the fields of electronics and optics due to its excellent optical and electrical properties, including as an anti reflective film.
In summary, zinc sulfide has important application value in multiple fields due to its unique physical and chemical properties as well as crystal structure.