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Multiple Choice
Approximately how many naturally occurring elements are there on Earth?
A
92
B
75
C
118
D
104
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding what is meant by 'naturally occurring elements.' These are elements that are found in nature and not synthesized in laboratories.
Recall that the periodic table is a comprehensive list of all known elements, both naturally occurring and synthetic.
Identify the range of atomic numbers that correspond to naturally occurring elements. These typically range from hydrogen (atomic number 1) to uranium (atomic number 92).
Consider that elements with atomic numbers greater than 92 are generally synthetic and not found naturally on Earth.
Conclude that the number of naturally occurring elements is determined by the atomic numbers of elements found in nature, which is up to uranium, atomic number 92.