Multiple Choice
Which process is primarily responsible for the formation of heavy elements such as gold and uranium in the universe?
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2. Atoms & Elements
Periodic Table: Elemental Forms
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Which one of the following elements does not exist as a diatomic molecule in nature?
A
Hydrogen (H_2)
B
Nitrogen (N_2)
C
Helium (He)
D
Oxygen (O_2)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand what a diatomic molecule is: it is a molecule composed of two atoms, which can be either of the same element or different elements. In nature, some elements commonly exist as diatomic molecules, such as H_2, N_2, and O_2.
Recall that hydrogen (H_2), nitrogen (N_2), and oxygen (O_2) naturally form diatomic molecules because their atoms bond in pairs to achieve stable electron configurations.
Recognize that helium (He) is a noble gas with a complete outer electron shell, making it chemically inert and unlikely to form bonds with other atoms, including itself.
Therefore, helium does not exist as a diatomic molecule (He_2) under normal natural conditions; it exists as individual atoms.
Conclude that among the given options, helium (He) is the element that does not exist as a diatomic molecule in nature.
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