How many naturally occurring elements are there?

Prepare for the Portage Biochemistry Module 1 Exam. Utilize our interactive quiz with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each accompanied by hints and explanations. Ace your exam confidently!

The correct answer reflects the understanding of the periodic table and the classification of elements in nature. As of now, there are 92 naturally occurring elements, beginning with hydrogen and extending through uranium, which is the heaviest naturally occurring element. These elements can be found in nature without the need for synthetic processes to create them.

The other numbers provided do not accurately correspond to the count of naturally occurring elements. For example, 80 and 100 include elements that are not naturally found or may imply synthetic elements. The number 110 is also incorrect, as this includes more artificially created elements that do not occur naturally. Thus, the most accurate choice, concentrating on the elements that can be found in nature, is 90, which represents the broader consideration of elements discovered up to that point, including those that may exist in trace amounts or under specific conditions.

Therefore, the correct understanding of the number of naturally occurring elements is crucial in the field of biochemistry, as it lays the foundation for understanding the building blocks of life and chemical interactions.

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