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Sulphur

**Sulphur (Sulfur)**

Sulphur, also spelled sulfur, is a chemical element with the symbol S and atomic number 16. It is a nonmetal and is abundant, multivalent, and nonmetallic. In its native form, sulphur is a bright yellow crystalline solid at room temperature. Historically known for its flammability, sulphur burns with a blue flame and emits a distinctive odor — the smell of burning matches is due to sulfur.

In the energy commodities trading sector, sulphur is significant because it is a byproduct of the refining process of fossil fuels such as petroleum and coal, where it is removed due to its corrosive effects and environmental impact when burnt and released into the atmosphere. The removed sulphur is often sold and used in the production of a wide range of products, including fertilizers, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and in the vulcanization of rubber.

The trading of sulphur as a commodity is dictated by supply and demand dynamics, where the production is influenced by the activities in the energy sector, and the demand is driven by the agricultural sector and industrial uses. Sulphur prices can be subject to volatility due to economic factors, technological advancements, and regulatory policies aimed at sulfur emissions.

For more information about sulphur, you can visit the following websites:

1. U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Minerals Information: Sulfur: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/nmic/sulfur-statistics-and-information
The USGS provides a comprehensive overview of sulfur, including statistics on production and consumption, uses, and the role it plays in the economy.

2. The International Sulphur, Inc.: https://www.sulphurinstitute.org/ rel="nofollow">https://www.sulphurinstitute.org/
The International Sulphur, Inc. is an organization dedicated to promoting the understanding of sulphur’s role in agriculture, the environment, industry, and transportation. Their website offers resources and publications on sulphur-related topics.

This A.I.-generated glossary is intended to provide a convenient means to understand terminology used on this website in the context of physical commodities trading. Some terms may have alternative and/or expanded definitions that may not be relevant here and thus not included. Sources provided are for reference and not intended to be an endorsement of the broader content on that website. Suggestions, questions, or corrections can be provided in the comment box on definition pages.

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