Of all the elements known to science today, which classification contains the greatest number of elements?

• A. Nonmetals
• B. Metalloids
• C. Noble gases
• D. Metals

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the classification of elements in the periodic table: elements are broadly categorized into metals, nonmetals, metalloids, and noble gases based on their properties.
2. Recall that metals are located on the left and center of the periodic table and include groups such as alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, transition metals, lanthanides, and actinides.
3. Recognize that nonmetals are found on the right side of the periodic table and include elements like oxygen, nitrogen, and halogens, but they are fewer in number compared to metals.
4. Note that metalloids have properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals and occupy a small diagonal region between metals and nonmetals, so their count is limited.
5. Remember that noble gases are a small group of inert gases located in group 18, and they are the least numerous among these classifications.