Identify the element that exists as a diatomic molecule in nature. nitrogen dioxide magnesium sulfur oxygen
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: Oxygen
Explanation (Approx. 300 Words):
In nature, some elements exist as diatomic molecules, meaning they are found as molecules made up of two atoms of the same element. These elements are often more stable when paired in this way due to the way they share electrons to achieve a full outer shell, which is the most stable configuration.
The seven diatomic elements that commonly exist in nature are:
- Hydrogen (H₂)
- Nitrogen (N₂)
- Oxygen (O₂)
- Fluorine (F₂)
- Chlorine (Cl₂)
- Bromine (Br₂)
- Iodine (I₂)
These are often remembered using the mnemonic:
“Have No Fear Of Ice Cold Beer” (H₂, N₂, F₂, O₂, I₂, Cl₂, Br₂)
Now, looking at the options given:
- Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂):
This is not an element, but a compound composed of nitrogen and oxygen atoms. It is not diatomic in the elemental sense. - Magnesium (Mg):
This is a metal that exists as individual atoms in a metallic lattice, not as diatomic molecules. - Sulfur (S):
Sulfur in nature exists in various forms, but commonly as S₈ rings, not diatomic (S₂) molecules. - Oxygen (O₂):
This is an element that exists naturally as a diatomic molecule. Each oxygen molecule consists of two oxygen atoms bonded together. In its molecular form, it is stable and essential for respiration in many living organisms.
Conclusion:
Oxygen is the correct answer. It naturally occurs as O₂, a diatomic molecule, making it part of the group of seven elements that commonly exist in this molecular form.