Understanding the Composition of Pyrite (Fool's Gold)

How many atoms are required to make pyrite?

A. One atom

B. Two atoms

C. Three atoms

D. Four atoms

Answer:

To make a single molecule of pyrite, which is a compound of FeS2, three atoms are needed: one iron atom and two sulfur atoms.

Pyrite, often known as Fool's Gold, is a yellow, metallic mineral composed of the chemical compound FeS2. This compound indicates that each molecule of pyrite is made up of one Fe (Iron) atom and two S (Sulphur) atoms. Therefore, a single molecule of pyrite requires three atoms in total - one iron atom and two sulfur atoms.