Which laboratory tool is commonly used to identify the elements present in a sample?

• A. Mortar and pestle
• B. Bunsen burner
• C. Graduated cylinder
• D. Spectroscope

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of the question: it asks which laboratory tool is commonly used to identify the elements present in a sample.
2. Recall that identifying elements typically involves analyzing the light emitted or absorbed by the sample, which relates to its atomic or molecular structure.
3. Recognize that a spectroscope is an instrument designed to separate and measure the different wavelengths of light emitted or absorbed by substances, allowing identification of elements based on their unique spectral lines.
4. Compare the other options: a mortar and pestle is used for grinding solids, a Bunsen burner provides heat, and a graduated cylinder measures liquid volume; none of these identify elements.
5. Conclude that the spectroscope is the correct laboratory tool for identifying elements in a sample because it analyzes the characteristic spectra emitted or absorbed by those elements.