How is it possible to create all living and nonliving matter with the elements of the periodic table?

Question

A.
There are more elements than those listed, and they can combine in an infinite number of ways.
B.
There are more elements than those listed that combine to produce a limited number of compounds.
C.
The number of elements is limited to the periodic table, but they can combine in a multitude of ways.
D.
The number of elements is limited to the periodic table and combine to produce a small number of compounds.

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

C. The number of elements is limited to the periodic table, but they can combine in a multitude of ways.

The periodic table consists of around 118 known elements, and these elements can combine in various ways to form an immense variety of compounds and materials. The unique combinations and arrangements of atoms, as well as the various types of chemical bonds (ionic, covalent, metallic, etc.), allow for the vast diversity of both living and nonliving matter.