Chalcogens are a group of chemical elements found in group 16 of the periodic table. This group includes elements such as oxygen, sulfur, selenium, tellurium, and polonium. Chalcogens are known for their diverse properties, ranging from nonmetals to metalloids and metals, and they play essential roles in various chemical reactions and biological processes. These elements typically form compounds with metals and nonmetals, often exhibiting oxidation states of -2, +4, or +6. For example, oxygen is crucial for respiration in living organisms, while sulfur is a key component in amino acids and proteins. Chalcogens are vital for life and have significant industrial applications.