Which statement best describes the current status of the periodic table regarding undiscovered elements?

• A. The periodic table is now completely finished, and no new elements can ever be added.
• B. Most elements have been discovered, but a few more may be found or synthesized in the future.
• C. There are many naturally occurring elements left to discover on Earth.
• D. Only elements with atomic numbers less than 100 can exist, so the table is complete.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the periodic table is a systematic arrangement of elements based on their atomic number and properties.
2. Recognize that while most naturally occurring elements have been discovered, scientists continue to synthesize new elements with higher atomic numbers in laboratories.
3. Note that elements beyond a certain atomic number (currently above 118) are not found naturally and must be created artificially, often with very short lifetimes.
4. Acknowledge that the periodic table is not considered 'complete' because ongoing research may lead to the discovery or synthesis of new elements, expanding the table further.
5. Conclude that the best description is that most elements have been discovered, but a few more may be found or synthesized in the future.