Chapter 15, Problem 1MC

The most abundant element in the earth’s crust is

1. a. oxygen
2. b. nitrogen
3. c. silicon
4. d. carbon

To determine

The most abundant element in the Earth’s crust.

Answer to Problem 1MC

Option-(a)-“Oxygen”

Explanation of Solution

The outer part of the Earth is called the crust is almost composed of rock. Earth’s crust consists of a very few abundant elements. Most of the elements are present in minor amounts.

Conclusion:

Oxygen is the most abundant element of the Earth’s crust, which is of about 46.6% of the total mass of the Earth’s crust. Silicon stands at the second place, which has about 27.7% of mass; whereas calcium is 3.6%, sodium is 2.8%, potassium is 2.6%, and magnesium is 2.1%. All the other elements occupy the remaining portion. Hence, option (a) is correct.

As silicon, nitrogen, and carbon occupy a less percentage of mass than oxygen, options (b), (c), and (d) are incorrect.