Which oxidation states can sulfur have in its compounds?

In its chemical compounds, sulfur commonly exhibits three primary oxidation states: −2, +4, and +6.12

These states are associated with specific types of compounds:

• −2: Found in sulfides, such as the sulfide ion ($S^{2-}$) and hydrogen sulfide.12
• +4: Found in sulfites, such as the sulfite ion ($S{O}_3^{2-}$), and sulfur dioxide.2
• +6: Found in sulfates, such as the sulfate ion ($S{O}_4^{2-}$), and sulfuric acid.12