Chalcogens are a group of elements found in Group 16 of the periodic table. This group includes oxygen, sulfur, selenium, tellurium, and polonium. Chalcogens are known for their diverse chemical properties and play essential roles in various biological and geological 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 of amino acids. The chalcogens are vital for life and have significant industrial applications.