How many elements occur naturally on Earth?

• A. 86
• B. 92
• C. 118
• D. 104

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the question is asking for the number of naturally occurring elements on Earth.
2. Recall that elements are defined by the number of protons in their atomic nuclei, and naturally occurring elements are those that can be found in nature without artificial synthesis.
3. Consider the periodic table, which organizes all known elements, both natural and synthetic.
4. Identify that the naturally occurring elements range from Hydrogen (atomic number 1) to Uranium (atomic number 92).
5. Conclude that there are 92 naturally occurring elements on Earth, as elements with atomic numbers 1 through 92 are found in nature.