Which element is most commonly found in the composition of minerals?

• A. Silicon
• B. Carbon
• C. Iron
• D. Oxygen

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that minerals are naturally occurring inorganic solids with a definite chemical composition and crystalline structure.
2. Recall that the Earth's crust is primarily composed of minerals containing oxygen combined with other elements.
3. Recognize that oxygen is the most abundant element in the Earth's crust and is a major component of many minerals, especially silicates.
4. Note that silicon is also abundant but usually bonded with oxygen in minerals, forming silicate minerals.
5. Conclude that oxygen is the most commonly found element in the composition of minerals due to its prevalence in mineral structures.