Sulfonium salts are a type of chemical compound that contain a positively charged sulfur atom bonded to three organic groups and an anion. The general formula for sulfonium salts is R₃S⁺X⁻, where R represents the organic groups and X is the anion. These compounds are often used in organic synthesis and can act as intermediates in various chemical reactions. One common application of sulfonium salts is in the production of sulfonium ylides, which are important in Staudinger reactions and Wittig reactions. Sulfonium salts can also be utilized in the development of ionic liquids and as catalysts in certain chemical processes, showcasing their versatility in the field of chemistry.