Which of the following best describes a synthetic element?

• A. An element that is found in nature and is essential for life.
• B. An element that is composed of molecules rather than atoms.
• C. An element that is artificially produced in a laboratory and does not occur naturally on Earth.
• D. An element that is formed only during radioactive decay.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of a synthetic element: it is an element that is not found naturally on Earth but is created artificially, usually in a laboratory setting through nuclear reactions.
2. Recognize that elements found in nature and essential for life are natural elements, not synthetic.
3. Know that elements are defined by their atoms, not molecules; elements composed of molecules refer to molecular substances, not synthetic elements.
4. Identify that elements formed only during radioactive decay are naturally occurring radioactive elements or decay products, not synthetic elements.
5. Conclude that the best description of a synthetic element is one that is artificially produced in a laboratory and does not occur naturally on Earth.