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

Question

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.