Which of the following lists contains the four most common elements that make up the Earth's crust?

• A. Oxygen, silicon, aluminum, iron
• B. Carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen
• C. Silicon, iron, copper, zinc
• D. Calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the Earth's crust is primarily composed of a few key elements that are abundant in the minerals making up rocks and soil.
2. Recall that oxygen is the most abundant element in the Earth's crust, mainly because it forms oxides and silicates with other elements.
3. Identify silicon as the second most abundant element, as it combines with oxygen to form silicate minerals, which are the major components of the crust.
4. Recognize aluminum and iron as the next most common elements, both of which are found in many minerals and contribute significantly to the crust's composition.
5. Compare the given lists to see which one contains these four elements: oxygen, silicon, aluminum, and iron, confirming that this list represents the four most common elements in the Earth's crust.