Question

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a scientist is examining the role of an element found in fats and carbohydrates of living things. this element makes up 65% of human body mass. which statement describes the element he is studying? he is studying oxygen, which is the most abundant element in the atmosphere. he is studying nitrogen, which can also be found in proteins. he is studying oxygen, which can also be found in proteins. he is studying nitrogen, which is the most abundant element in the atmosphere.

Explanation:

1. Recall the properties of oxygen: Oxygen makes up about 65% of human body mass, is present in fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, and is not the most abundant element in the atmosphere (nitrogen is).
2. Analyze each option:

• Option 1: "He is studying oxygen, which is the most abundant element in the atmosphere." → Incorrect, nitrogen is most abundant in the atmosphere.
• Option 2: "He is studying oxygen, which can also be found in proteins." → Correct, as oxygen is in fats, carbs, proteins, and 65% of body mass.
• Option 3: "He is studying nitrogen, which can also be found in proteins." → Incorrect, the element in question is 65% of body mass (oxygen, not nitrogen).
• Option 4: "He is studying nitrogen, which is the most abundant element in the atmosphere." → Incorrect, the element is in fats/carbs and 65% body mass (oxygen).

Answer:

He is studying oxygen, which can also be found in proteins.