Question

elements that form diatomic molecules include ________.
a carbon
b oxygen
c sodium
d silicon

Explanation:

• Carbon: Usually forms complex compounds like \(CO_2\), \(CH_4\) etc., not diatomic molecules in standard conditions.
• Oxygen: Exists as \(O_2\) (diatomic molecule) in its elemental form in the atmosphere.
• Sodium: Exists as a metal lattice (\(Na\) atoms in a metallic structure), not as a diatomic molecule.
• Silicon: Exists as a covalent network solid (like diamond - like structure for silicon), not as a diatomic molecule.

Answer:

B. oxygen