Why are there more substances found on Earth than the number of elements listed on the periodic table?

• A. Because the periodic table only lists the elements found in nature, not synthetic substances.
• B. Because some elements are duplicated on the periodic table under different names.
• C. Because elements can combine in various ways to form compounds and mixtures.
• D. Because the periodic table includes only metals and excludes nonmetals.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the periodic table lists only the individual elements, which are pure substances consisting of one type of atom.
2. Recognize that substances found on Earth include not only elements but also compounds and mixtures, which are combinations of two or more elements.
3. Recall that elements can chemically combine in countless ways to form compounds with different properties and compositions, greatly increasing the number of possible substances.
4. Note that mixtures are physical combinations of substances that can vary in proportion, further increasing the diversity of substances found on Earth.
5. Conclude that the reason there are more substances than elements is because elements combine to form a vast array of compounds and mixtures, not because the periodic table is incomplete or duplicated.