Question

which of these elements are you least likely to find in nature as a pure element (that is, not combined with any other elements in a compound)? use the periodic table to answer the question. gold (au) oxygen (o) argon (ar) sodium (na)

Explanation:

Gold is a noble metal and is often found in nature as a pure element. Argon is a noble gas with a full - outer electron shell, making it very stable and found as a pure element. Oxygen is often found as a diatomic molecule ($O_2$) in the atmosphere and is relatively stable in its elemental form. Sodium is a highly reactive alkali metal. It readily reacts with other substances, such as water and oxygen, to form compounds.

Answer:

D. sodium (Na)