Ammonium pentasulfide is a chemical compound with the chemical formula (NH4)2S5.[1]
Synthesis
Passing hydrogen sulfide through a suspension of powdered sulfur in a concentrated ammonia solution:[2][3]
2NH3 + H2S + 4S → (NH4)2S5
Physical properties
Ammonium sulfide forms yellow crystals, decomposing in water, of monoclinic system, space group P21/c, cell parameters a = 0.5427 nm, b = 1.6226 nm, c = 0.9430 nm, β = 105.31°, Z = 4.[4]
The compound can be stored under the mother liquor without air access. When dry, it decomposes quickly in the air. the compound emits sulfur intensively in water and melts in a sealed ampoule at 95 °C to form a red liquid.
Chemical properties
The compound decomposes when stored in air or slightly heated:[5]