Tungsten (W\text{W}W) is a transition metal. It is extracted from its ore, often starting with tungsten disulfide (WS2\text{WS}_2WS2).
Tungsten disulfide is converted into tungsten trioxide by heating in air according to the following equation:
2WS2+7O2→2WO3+4SO2 2\text{WS}_2 + 7\text{O}_2 \rightarrow 2\text{WO}_3 + 4\text{SO}_2 2WS2+7O2→2WO3+4SO2Why is tungsten said to be oxidised in this reaction?
The sulfur dioxide (SO2\text{SO}_2SO2) formed in this reaction can react with water in the atmosphere to form sulfurous acid (H2SO3\text{H}_2\text{SO}_3H2SO3), which contributes to acid rain. Write a balanced chemical equation for this reaction.
The table below shows the melting points of tungsten trioxide and sulfur dioxide:
| Compound | Melting point (∘C^{\circ}\text{C}∘C) |
|---|---|
| Tungsten trioxide | 147314731473 |
| Sulfur dioxide | −75-75−75 |
What is the type of bonding in a molecule of sulfur dioxide?
Explain, in terms of structure and bonding, why the melting point of sulfur dioxide is very low.
While tungsten trioxide has a giant structure, under certain conditions it can form gaseous molecular dimers. Deduce the molecular formula of the tungsten oxide dimer shown in the diagram below:
The metallic structure of tungsten gives it typical metallic properties.
Describe the structure and bonding in metallic tungsten.
Explain why tungsten is a good conductor of electricity.
Explain why tungsten is malleable.
