Sulfur is a naturally occurring mineral that is found primarily near hot springs and volcanic craters. It has a distinct "rotten egg" odor caused by the smell of sulfur dioxide coming into contact with oxygen. As a supplement, sulfur comes in two forms: dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). About 15% of dimethyl sulfoxide breaks down in the body to the state of methylsulfonylmethane. Both forms of sulfur are good for treating all types of pain.

Sulfur occurs naturally in some plants such as horsetail, fruits and vegetables, some grains and milk. Sera plays important role in joint health and helps health connective tissue- cartilage, tendons and ligaments. It can also slow down the nerve impulses that transmit pain signals, reducing pain.

Industrial sulfur

Sulfur is by-product chemical production paper and is used as an industrial solvent and also for medical purposes. Sulfur is also used in creams and taken orally for pain. Unlike the first form of sulfur - MSM, its second form - DMSO - is absorbed through the skin.

Never use industrial form sulfur as an addition to medications, since it may contain dangerous impurities. You should talk to your doctor before taking sulfur either internally or externally.

Mud baths with sulfur

Mud baths containing sulfur - this method is often called balneotherapy - can help in treatment skin diseases and arthritis. Balneotherapy is one of the oldest forms of pain treatment for people with arthritis. The term "balneotherapy" comes from the Latin word and means soaking in thermal or mineral water. Some people claim that these baths are beneficial for allergies and illnesses respiratory tract, but there is no scientific evidence for this.

People also use sulfur products on the skin to treat acne and other skin conditions.

Many - but not all - studies suggest that there may be a connection between sulfur gases that are released into environment, and worsening allergies and respiratory diseases, in particular asthma.

Skin diseases

Sulfur packs and other types of sulfur compresses are applied to the skin to help treat psoriasis, eczema, dandruff, folliculitis (infected hair follicles), warts, and versicolor is a chronic skin condition that is characterized by areas that are different in color from the normal skin tone.

Arthritis

Balneotherapy - well-designed studies, most of which are conducted in Israel, show that balneotherapy can help treat various types arthritis, including osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis(RA) and psoriatic arthritis. People who took sulfur baths and used other treatments experienced less morning stiffness, differed best ability walk, they experienced a decrease in inflammation, swelling and pain in the joints, especially in the neck and back.

Mud therapy and Dead Sea salts dissolved in a regular bath also improved arthritis symptoms, but not as effectively as relaxing in the Dead Sea.

Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)

Studies have shown that 2,600 mg of sulfur per day for 30 days can reduce symptoms seasonal allergies. But more and more research is needed to see for sure whether sulfur has a real effect.

Shingles

One form of sulfur, dimethyl sulfoxide, has been proposed as a treatment to reduce the pain and inflammation of shingles (herpes zoster). Some evidence suggests that sulfur may indeed reduce damage and inflammation, but more research is needed to fully understand this.

Interstitial cystitis

Doctors also believe that dimethyl sulfoxide is good for treating interstitial cystitis, chronic inflammation bladder, which leads to frequent urination at night, as well as pain. When sulfur in the form of dimethyl sulfoxide is used to treat interstitial cystitis, the doctor administers it liquid solution directly into the bladder.

General anesthesia may be necessary as the procedure may be painful and may cause bladder spasms.

Amyloidosis

Several studies may lead us to believe that sulfur, when applied in creams or orally, may help treat amyloidosis, a condition in which protein builds up in organs and damages them. However, since this rarely happens, there are no scientific research about the effect of sulfur on amyloidosis. Use sulfur in creams only under medical supervision.

Sulfur is found in protein-rich foods such as eggs, meat, poultry, fish and legumes. Other good sources sulfurs include garlic, onions, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, cabbage and wheat germ.

Below is information about the sulfur content of some products:

Sulfur for children

There is no data on the effects of sulfur on children's bodies

Sulfur for adults

Arthritis. Studies have shown that oral doses of sulfur for this condition are 500 - 3000 mg MSM per day, or doses of topical 25% DMSO cream or gel applied 1 - 3 times daily

Hay fever. One study used 2600 mg per day for this condition.

Amyloidosis. Oral doses sulfur in this disease - 7 - 15 g of DMSO per day, or current doses - 50 - 100% DMSO, which is used 2 times a week.

Precautions while taking sulfur

Because of possible side effects and drug interactions, you should only take sulfur products under the supervision of a knowledgeable physician.

Researchers believe that one form of sulfur, MSM, is safe. However, you should talk to your doctor before taking large doses this or any other drug.

Do not take the form of sulfur - DMSO - internally without a doctor's supervision. Side effects from taking DMSO internally include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea or constipation. When used topically, DMSO may cause skin irritation.

If you have diabetes, asthma, or liver, kidney, or heart disease, do not use DMSO sulfur. Never take sulfur in the form of commercial grade DMSO.

DMSO, a form of sulfur, should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Sulfur makes up almost 3% of the Earth's mass. If you think that's not much, the next time you look up at the sky and see the Moon, think about this: the earth contains enough sulfur to hold not one Moon, but two!

Pure sulfur is odorless, but many of its compounds smell very foul! For example, sulfur compounds enable skunks to demonstrate their terrible odor. Rotten eggs (and most smelly bombs) smell this way because of the odor of hydrogen sulfide, H2S.

There is much more sulfur in the Earth's core than in its crust - about 100 times more.

Penicillin is a natural sulfur-based antibiotic.

Mankind has known about such an important element of the periodic table as sulfur since prehistoric times.

In many religious cults, sulfur was used by priests and shamans during their rituals. People believed that sulfur vapors, which had a suffocating effect, were nothing more than sacred incense, thanks to which a connection was ensured between mere mortals and the gods.

After some time, sulfur began to be used to make weapons.

The ancient Egyptians used sulfur in the process of roasting ore. The Arabs, despite the fact that sulfur is not a metal at all, called it “the father of all metals.” And European alchemists often conducted all sorts of experiments with this element.

What sulfur actually is was determined by the chemist Louvasier, who was able to correctly establish its elemental non-metallic nature. After this, people began to actively look for ways to obtain sulfur, since all countries had a need for gunpowder.

Biological role

“Beauty mineral” - that’s what I call sulfur - is present in many plants, as well as in the bodies of humans and animals. If its amount is below the required norm, the skin begins to age and fade, as well as hair breakage and loss.

Since sulfur is an important ingredient in cystine, cystine and methionine amino acids, it plays a significant role in the synthesis of proteins involved in the construction of all connective tissues of the human body.

A large amount of sulfur is present in keratin - one of the most important elements of hair, skin and nails.

Sulfur ensures normal cellular respiration and also promotes the production of bile. Thanks to this important element, balance is maintained throughout our body.

Sulfur can prevent the development of scoliosis, as well as effectively relieve cramps and eliminate painful sensations for arthritis, myositis, bursitis and sprains.

Sulfur helps remove toxins and waste from the body, as it has the ability to increase membrane permeability and also neutralize harmful substances, which accumulate in the middle of cells.

Sulfur is very effective for various allergic diseases, due to the fact that it is able to effectively and timely remove foreign substances from the body toxic substance, acting as an allergen.

Symptoms of calcium sulfur overdose and deficiency

Sulfur deficiency reduces reproductive function, and also slows down the growth of body cells. In addition, it can cause deterioration in the condition of the skin, hair and nails. It is also possible to develop diseases of the joints and liver.

An excess of sulfur, especially if hydrogen sulfide vapor is inhaled, can lead to seizures, loss of function, and even respiratory failure. The outcome can be fatal, or the person will remain disabled for the rest of his life - he will experience paralysis, impairment of work gastrointestinal tract, lungs and psyche, as well as severe and prolonged headaches.

According to experts, in lately An excess of sulfur can be caused by consuming products containing significant amounts of sulfites, which are added to extend their shelf life. Most often, sulfate is present in smoked sausages, as well as in ready-made salads, which are now sold in all supermarkets.

Excessive consumption of sulfur causes skin problems - rashes, itching and boils. In addition, eye problems may occur - conjunctivitis, corneal defects, as well as a feeling of sand in the eyes. To others severe symptoms include anemia, dizziness and sensation general weakness, nausea and headaches, upper respiratory tract diseases, weight loss, and temporary deterioration in intellectual abilities.

To ensure that your body constantly contains the optimal amount of sulfur, be sure to consume high-quality seafood, meat, eggs, cabbage, legumes and cheese. If this is not enough, you can additionally take mineral complexes, which the doctor will recommend to you, taking into account your individual characteristics.

Interaction with other substances

In the human body, sulfur actively interacts with B vitamins, as well as vitamins H and N.

In order for sulfur to be well absorbed in the body, it must contain required quantity iron and fluorine. Elements such as molybdenum, selenium, lead, arsenic and barium, on the contrary, prevent the absorption of sulfur.

Daily requirement

In order to maintain proper health, adults need to consume 4-6 grams of sulfur daily. It may be very useful in this regard mineral water containing sulfates.

A significant amount of sulfur is found in products of animal origin - mainly in meat, poultry, fish and seafood products, eggs, cheeses and dairy products. Regarding plant food, quite a lot of sulfur is present in legumes and cereals, in apples, grapes, plums and gooseberries, in garlic, cabbage, asparagus, spinach, nuts, mustard, horseradish, chili peppers, radishes, radishes and bread.

Sulfur is invariably present in the body and is one of the macroelements necessary for humans. The largest amount of it is found in the skin.

It also occurs in the hair, nails, muscle tissue and joints. This element resides in each of our cells. Sulfur is found in the content of methionine and cystine, in vitamin B1 and in the hormone insulin.

Functions of sulfur

• Sulfur energetically assists the body in the fight against harmful bacteria, protecting the protoplasm of the blood.
• The blood coagulation indicator is determined by the quantitative composition of sulfur - it helps maintain optimal coagulation levels.
• Sulfur is an essential element in human body– it helps to stabilize the required concentration of bile produced, which is extremely important and necessary for food processing.
• Helps cleanse blood and lymph from accumulated toxins, poisons and other unnecessary elements;
• Guarantees the transmission of genetic information;
• Takes an active part in the formation of collagen;
• Implements the act of energy metabolism in cells;
• Promotes lipid absorption through the production of bile acid;
• Counteracts tissue oxidation;
• Streamlines exchange flows;

Sulfur and the secret of youth

Another important quality of this macronutrient is its ability to slow down the process of withering. It is possible to delay old age due to the beneficial characteristics of this substance - to protect the body from radioactive radiation and other similar influences of our environment.

This is especially valuable in the current environment and the constant presence of people near all kinds of devices and wave emitters.

The volume of this macroelement contained in the body is approximately 100 mg.

Much needed beneficial sulfur

1. This macronutrient is necessary for the proper functioning of the liver and muscles; in significant quantities this mineral is contained in nerve cells and blood.
2. Sulfur is a necessary component of the natural growth, formation and development of the human bone frame.
3. This substance contains melanin and keratin, as a result of which, if there is a lack of it, nails begin to peel and hair comes out.
4. Among other things, sulfur is an indispensable component of a number of chemical formations in the body, such as: insulin, various enzymes, taurine, coenzymes, and a number of amino acids.

Sulfur - bones and muscles

An essential quality of this element seems to be participation in the formation of cartilage and bone tissue, which is quite significant for childhood.

Sulfur helps strengthen and develop skeletal - muscular system , increases elasticity. IN adolescence, this substance is required to prevent scoliosis, and adults need it as a healing effect on bursitis of the knee and elbow joints and stretching.

When consumed optimally, sulfur helps eliminate inflammation, reduce pain in the inflamed area, in complicated episodes - counteracts convulsive contractions.

Permissible doses

Information about the required daily intake of this macronutrient is quite contradictory.

The lack of accurate information is explained by the lack of a reasonable amount of data on the effect of the element on the body.

Experts agreed that for a person with no abnormalities in the body’s activity, 3-4 g of sulfur per day is enough.

With an optimal diet, rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables, meat and dairy products, additional consumption of sulfur is not required.

Some part of society should monitor the presence of this macronutrient in their diet, these are:

• Children;
• Persons with diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
• People actively involved in sports;
• Workers with large physical activity;

Symptoms of sulfur deficiency

• Reduced reproductive processes;
• Stunting of cell growth;
• Liver and joint diseases;
• Disorders in metabolic functions;

Sulfur is found in collagen and melanin, and therefore the first symptoms indicating a lack of this macroelement are difficulties with the skin, it becomes pale, dull, colorless, with a gray tint.

Causes of sulfur deficiency

There are several reasons for the lack of this macronutrient in the body:

• This overuse protein food;
• Dysbacteriosis;
• Disturbances in the metabolic flows of sulfur-containing elements;

Sulfur content in food

To provide the body with the optimal amount of this macronutrient, you should include in your diet: cheese, chicken and quail eggs, legumes, different fish, beef, pork, cabbage, garlic, onions, sprouted grains, apples, nuts.

Experts say that the maximum amount of this macroelement is found in quail eggs. It is no coincidence that they are classified as means that help remove radionuclides from the body.
But it is worth noting that chicken eggs also contain a significant dose of this element.

Signs of excess

• Furunculosis, skin irritations;
• Photophobia, conjunctivitis;
• Migraines;
• Anemia;
• Decreased hearing acuity;
• Loss of body weight;
• Disruptions in the functioning of the digestive system;
• Weakening of mental abilities;

These abnormalities in the functioning of the body may have severe consequences, if appropriate actions are not taken in a timely manner, therefore, “bells” from the body indicating excess sulfur should not be neglected.

You should immediately seek advice and treatment from a doctor after passing the appropriate tests.

Causes of overdose

An excess of this macronutrient in the body can occur due to the significant use in the diet of foods that contain this substance in excess.

This is also facilitated by the production of a large number of products using sulfites.

To avoid this, there are some things you should know about the products you should be careful with.
This is, first of all:

1. Beer and wine products;
2. Smoked products;
3. Cooked confectionery and various salads;
4. Vinegar;
5. Potato;

In the human body, sulfur is one of the main structural nutrients; it is one of the five most necessary components for life. The adult body contains approximately 140 g of the nutrient. Most of the element is found in the bloodstream, internal organs, muscular and nerve tissue. Sulfur fulfills its biogenic role in the composition of amino acids, B vitamins and hormones.

The role of sulfur in the human body

Sulfur is mandatory component proteinogenic amino acids: cysteine ​​and methionine. The main ones are built from them protein structures body. Participates in education supporting apparatus, strengthening the muscles and ligaments of the body. Structural function it is not limited to this. Sulfur is involved in the formation of the three-dimensional spatial structure of protein molecules. The element is an important component collagen is a specific protein that gives structure and support to body tissues.

Healthy complexion shiny hair, strong nails- thanks to sulfur. It takes part in the synthesis of the pigment methionine, which gives the skin a beautiful tan. Keratin, which makes up nails and hair, is based on sulfur. With a lack of nutrients, dryness, fragility, dull color hair.

Sulfur has a strong detoxifying effect. Protects a person from pathogenic microorganisms and fungi. Protects tissues and organs from ionizing radiation and toxins. Sulfur neutralizes such toxic substances in the body, such as indole, phenol and others formed as a result of metabolism. In conditions of unfavorable environmental conditions in megacities, deficiency of the element is the cause of decreased immunity, protective forces organism, allergization of the population.

Hormones such as insulin and calcitonin have sulfur in their structure. It is involved in normalizing blood sugar levels and glucose metabolism.

Sulfur is also contained in hemoglobin. It promotes better adsorption of oxygen and carbon dioxide on red blood cells and participates in the processes of transporting substances.

Sulfur takes an active part in the production bile acids, promotes the body's absorption of incoming food fats. Sulfur deficiency leads to impaired digestive function, overload of the pancreas and disruption of the normal outflow of bile.

The synthesis of DNA and RNA molecules is impossible without the presence of sulfur. It is also part of vitamin B1 - thiamine and biotin.

Being strong antioxidant, sulfur actively fights free radicals, protects the genetic apparatus of cells from negative impact aggressive external environment.

Sources of sulfur for humans

The microelement enters the human body in the form of organic compounds (usually acids). A feature of the nutrient is its ability to penetrate the skin, transform there into sulfides and sulfates, and in this form enter the bloodstream. Special medicinal sulfur-containing natural sources are ideally suited for intensively saturating the body with the element.

Fluorine and iron facilitate the absorption of sulfur. Elements such as arsenic and molybdenum make it difficult for the body to absorb the element. Selenium also slows down the absorption of sulfur.

A person needs from 4 to 12 grams of sulfur per day. Athletes have an increased need. Children during periods of intensive growth also need increased doses of nutrients. The need for sulfur increases with age.

A balanced diet helps prevent sulfur deficiency in the body. Your diet should include foods rich in sulfur. These include: cheeses, eggs, fish, milk, beans, onions, apples, cabbage, cereals.

Excess and deficiency of sulfur

Lack of sulfur leads to the following violations in the body:

• weak and dull hair;
• unhealthy complexion, pigmentation;
• exhaustion;
• chronic constipation;
• muscular dystrophy;
• liver dysfunction;
• allergic reactions.

An increased intake of sulfur into the body occurs during poisoning with sulfur-containing substances in industry, production, or consumption large quantity canned products. Carbon disulfide, hydrogen sulfide, and sulfur oxides are highly toxic to the body. Sulfur compounds entering digestive system, under the influence intestinal microflora turn into toxic hydrogen sulfide.

Recently, sulfur-based preservatives have been added to wines, beer, sausages and smoked products, carbonated drinks, etc. Sulfur contained in products in the form of preservatives is not capable of causing acute poisoning, but overconsumption canned products may cause an increased intake of sulfur into the body.

Signs acute poisoning grey:

• trembling (tremor) of limbs, convulsions;
• violations nervous system, paralysis;
• unconscious state;
• respiratory arrest, death.

Signs chronic poisoning grey:

• respiratory diseases;
• skin itching, rashes;
• anemia;
• indigestion;
• weakened vision;
• disorders of the central nervous system.

When consumed healthy food, rich in proteins, a person does not experience a deficiency in sulfur. Intense physical activity usually involves a protein-rich diet, and additional sources no sulfur required.

Chalcogens are a group of elements to which sulfur belongs. Its chemical symbol is S - the first letter Latin name Sulphur. The composition of a simple substance is written using this symbol without an index. Let's consider the main points regarding the structure, properties, production and use of this element. The characteristics of sulfur will be presented in as much detail as possible.

General characteristics and differences of chalcogens

Sulfur belongs to the oxygen subgroup. This is the 16th group in modern long-period imaging form periodic table(PS). The outdated version of the number and index is VIA. Titles chemical elements groups, chemical signs:

• oxygen (O);
• sulfur (S);
• selenium (Se);
• tellurium (Te);
• polonium (Po).

The outer electronic shell of the above elements has the same structure. In total, it contains 6 which can participate in the formation of chemical bonds with other atoms. Hydrogen compounds correspond to the composition H 2 R, for example, H 2 S is hydrogen sulfide. Names of chemical elements that form two types of compounds with oxygen: sulfur, selenium and tellurium. General formulas oxides of these elements - RO 2, RO 3.

Chalcogens correspond to simple substances that differ significantly in physical properties. Most common in earth's crust of all chalcogens - oxygen and sulfur. The first element forms two gases, the second - solids. Polonium, a radioactive element, is rarely found in the earth's crust. In the group from oxygen to polonium, non-metallic properties decrease and metallic properties increase. For example, sulfur is a typical non-metal, while tellurium has a metallic luster and electrical conductivity.

Element No. 16 of the periodic table D.I. Mendeleev

The relative atomic mass of sulfur is 32.064. Of the natural isotopes, 32 S is the most common (more than 95% by weight). Nuclides with atomic masses 33, 34 and 36 are found in smaller quantities. Characteristics of sulfur by position in the PS and atomic structure:

• serial number - 16;
• the charge of the atomic nucleus is +16;
• atomic radius - 0.104 nm;
• ionization energy -10.36 eV;
• relative electronegativity - 2.6;
• oxidation state in compounds - +6, +4, +2, -2;
• valency - II(-), II(+), IV(+), VI (+).

Sulfur is in the third period; electrons in an atom are located at three energy levels: on the first - 2, on the second - 8, on the third - 6. All external electrons are valence. When interacting with more electronegative elements, sulfur gives up 4 or 6 electrons, acquiring typical oxidation states of +6, +4. In reactions with hydrogen and metals, the atom attracts the missing 2 electrons until the octet is filled and a stable state is achieved. in this case it is reduced to -2.

Physical properties of rhombic and monoclinic allotropic forms

At normal conditions Sulfur atoms are connected to each other at an angle to form stable chains. They can be closed in rings, which suggests the existence of cyclic sulfur molecules. Their composition is reflected by the formulas S 6 and S 8.

The characteristics of sulfur should be supplemented by a description of the differences between allotropic modifications that have different physical properties.

Rhombic, or α-sulfur, is the most stable crystalline form. These are bright yellow crystals consisting of S 8 molecules. The density of rhombic sulfur is 2.07 g/cm3. Light yellow monoclinic crystals are formed by β-sulfur with a density of 1.96 g/cm3. The boiling point reaches 444.5°C.

Preparation of amorphous sulfur

What color is sulfur in its plastic state? It is a dark brown mass, completely different from the yellow powder or crystals. To obtain it, you need to melt orthorhombic or monoclinic sulfur. At temperatures above 110°C, a liquid is formed; with further heating it darkens, and at 200°C it becomes thick and viscous. If you quickly pour molten sulfur into cold water, then it will harden with the formation of zigzag chains, the composition of which is reflected by the formula S n.

Sulfur solubility

Some modifications in carbon disulfide, benzene, toluene and liquid ammonia. If organic solutions are slowly cooled, needle-shaped crystals of monoclinic sulfur are formed. When liquids evaporate, transparent lemon-yellow crystals of rhombic sulfur are released. They are fragile and can be easily ground into powder. Sulfur does not dissolve in water. The crystals sink to the bottom of the vessel, and the powder may float on the surface (not wetted).

Chemical properties

The reactions exhibit the typical non-metallic properties of element No. 16:

• sulfur oxidizes metals and hydrogen and is reduced to the S 2- ion;
• combustion in air and oxygen produces sulfur di- and trioxide, which are acid anhydrides;
• in a reaction with another more electronegative element - fluorine - sulfur also loses its electrons (oxidizes).

Free sulfur in nature

In terms of abundance in the earth's crust, sulfur is in 15th place among the chemical elements. The average content of S atoms is 0.05% of the mass of the earth's crust.

What color is sulfur in nature (native)? It is a light yellow powder with a characteristic odor or yellow crystals with a glassy luster. Deposits in the form of placers, crystalline layers of sulfur are found in areas of ancient and modern volcanism: in Italy, Poland, Central Asia, Japan, Mexico, and the USA. Often, beautiful druses and giant single crystals are found during mining.

Hydrogen sulfide and oxides in nature

In areas of volcanism, gaseous sulfur compounds come to the surface. The Black Sea at a depth of over 200 m is lifeless due to the release of hydrogen sulfide H 2 S. The formula of sulfur oxide is divalent - SO 2, trivalent - SO 3. The listed gaseous compounds are present in some oil, gas, natural waters. Sulfur is a component of coal. It is necessary for the construction of many organic compounds. When proteins rot chicken egg hydrogen sulfide is released, which is why it is often said that this gas has an odor rotten eggs. Sulfur refers to nutrients, it is necessary for the growth and development of humans, animals and plants.

The importance of natural sulfides and sulfates

The characterization of sulfur will be incomplete if it is not said that the element is found not only in the form of simple substances and oxides. The most common natural compounds are salts of hydrogen sulfide and sulfuric acids. Sulfides of copper, iron, zinc, mercury, and lead are found in the minerals sphalerite, cinnabar and galena. Sulfates include sodium, calcium, barium and magnesium salts, which are formed in nature by minerals and rocks (mirabilite, gypsum, selenite, barite, kieserite, epsomite). All these compounds are used in various sectors of the economy, used as raw materials for industrial processing, fertilizers, and building materials. Some crystalline hydrates are of great medical importance.

Receipt

Substance yellow in a free state it is found in nature at different depths. If necessary, sulfur is smelted from rocks, not raising them to the surface, but pumping superheated and deep into the water. Another method is associated with sublimation from crushed rocks in special furnaces. Other methods involve dissolution with carbon disulfide or flotation.

Industry needs for sulfur are great, so its compounds are used to obtain the elemental substance. In hydrogen sulfide and sulfides, sulfur is in reduced form. The oxidation state of the element is -2. Sulfur is oxidized, increasing this value to 0. For example, according to the Leblanc method, sodium sulfate is reduced with coal to sulfide. Then calcium sulfide is obtained from it, treated with carbon dioxide and water vapor. The resulting hydrogen sulfide is oxidized with atmospheric oxygen in the presence of a catalyst: 2H 2 S + O 2 = 2H 2 O + 2S. Determination of sulfur obtained in different ways, sometimes gives low performance cleanliness. Refining or purification is carried out by distillation, rectification, and treatment with mixtures of acids.

Application of sulfur in modern industry

Granulated sulfur is used for various production needs:

1. Production of sulfuric acid in the chemical industry.
2. Production of sulfites and sulfates.
3. Production of preparations for plant nutrition, combating diseases and pests of agricultural crops.
4. Sulfur-containing ores are processed at mining and chemical plants to produce non-ferrous metals. A related production is sulfuric acid production.
5. Introduction to the composition of certain types of steel to impart special properties.
6. Thanks they get rubber.
7. Production of matches, pyrotechnics, explosives.
8. Use for the preparation of paints, pigments, artificial fibers.
9. Bleaching of fabrics.

Toxicity of sulfur and its compounds

Dust particles with unpleasant smell, irritate the mucous membranes of the nasal cavity and respiratory tract, eyes, and skin. But the toxicity of elemental sulfur is not considered particularly high. Inhalation of hydrogen sulfide and dioxide can cause severe poisoning.

If during the roasting of sulfur-containing ores at metallurgical plants the exhaust gases are not captured, they enter the atmosphere. Combining with drops and water vapor, oxides of sulfur and nitrogen give rise to so-called acid rain.

Sulfur and its compounds in agriculture

Plants absorb sulfate ions along with the soil solution. A decrease in sulfur content leads to a slowdown in the metabolism of amino acids and proteins in green cells. Therefore, sulfates are used for fertilizing agricultural crops.

To disinfect poultry houses, basements, and vegetable stores, the simple substance is burned or the premises are treated with modern sulfur-containing preparations. Sulfur oxide has antimicrobial properties, which has long been used in the production of wines and in the storage of vegetables and fruits. Sulfur preparations are used as pesticides to combat diseases and pests of agricultural crops (powdery mildew and spider mites).

Application in medicine

Great importance to study medicinal properties The great healers of antiquity, Avicenna and Paracelsus, gave yellow powder. Later it was found that a person who does not receive enough sulfur from food becomes weaker and experiences health problems (these include itching and flaking of the skin, weakening of hair and nails). The fact is that without sulfur, the synthesis of amino acids, keratin, and biochemical processes in the body is disrupted.

Medical sulfur is included in ointments for the treatment of skin diseases: acne, eczema, psoriasis, allergies, seborrhea. Baths with sulfur can relieve pain from rheumatism and gout. For better absorption The body has created water-soluble sulfur-containing drugs. This is not a yellow powder, but a fine crystalline substance white. When using this compound externally, it is included in the composition cosmetic product for skin care.

Plaster has long been used to immobilize injured parts of the human body. prescribed as a laxative medicine. Magnesia lowers blood pressure, which is used in the treatment of hypertension.

Sulfur in history

Even in ancient times, a yellow non-metallic substance attracted human attention. But it was not until 1789 that the great chemist Lavoisier discovered that powders and crystals found in nature were composed of sulfur atoms. It was believed that the unpleasant odor produced by burning it repels all evil spirits. The formula of sulfur oxide, which is obtained during combustion, is SO 2 (dioxide). It is a toxic gas and inhaling it is hazardous to health. Scientists explain several cases of mass extinction of people by entire villages on the coasts and in the lowlands by the release of hydrogen sulfide or sulfur dioxide from the ground or water.

The invention of black powder increased military interest in yellow crystals. Many battles were won thanks to the ability of craftsmen to combine sulfur with other substances during the manufacturing process. The most important compound - sulfuric acid - was also learned to be used a very long time ago. In the Middle Ages, this substance was called oil of vitriol, and salts were called vitriol. Copper sulfate CuSO 4 and iron sulfate FeSO 4 have still not lost their importance in industry and agriculture.