Here's why:
* Alkali metals have a +1 charge when they form ions (M⁺).
* Sulfur has a -2 charge when it forms ions (S⁻²).
* To achieve a neutral compound, you need two alkali metal ions (2 x +1 = +2) to balance the charge of one sulfur ion (-2).
Therefore, the general formula for these compounds is M₂S.
Examples:
* Lithium sulfide: Li₂S
* Sodium sulfide: Na₂S
* Potassium sulfide: K₂S
* Rubidium sulfide: Rb₂S
* Cesium sulfide: Cs₂S