Question

A scientist is interested in studying different elements. She has 4 different chemicals on her bench.

Examine the list of chemicals. How many different elements does she have available to study?

Chemical Name Chemical Formula
phosphoric acid H
PO
glucose C
H
O
epsom salts MgSO
chlorate of potash KClO

Answer 1

Let's analyze the chemical formulas provided to identify the distinct elements they contain:

1. **Phosphoric Acid (H₃PO₄)**:
- Elements: Hydrogen (H), Phosphorus (P), Oxygen (O)

2. **Glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆)**:
- Elements: Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), Oxygen (O)

3. **Epsom Salts (MgSO₄)**:
- Elements: Magnesium (Mg), Sulfur (S), Oxygen (O)

4. **Chlorate of Potash (KClO₃)**:
- Elements: Potassium (K), Chlorine (Cl), Oxygen (O)

Now let's compile the list of unique elements from all the chemicals:

- Hydrogen (H)
- Phosphorus (P)
- Oxygen (O)
- Carbon (C)
- Magnesium (Mg)
- Sulfur (S)
- Potassium (K)
- Chlorine (Cl)

In total, the scientist has **8 different elements** available to study.