Metal sulfides are compounds formed by the combination of metal elements with sulfur. They typically have a crystalline structure and can occur naturally as minerals, such as pyrite or galena. These compounds are important in various industrial applications, including the production of metals and as semiconductors in electronics. In addition to their industrial uses, metal sulfides play a role in environmental processes. They can influence the mobility of heavy metals in soil and water, affecting ecosystems. Understanding metal sulfides is crucial for mining, environmental science, and materials engineering, as they can impact both resource extraction and pollution management.