Asked by Danielle Giannini on Jul 21, 2024

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Why are silicate minerals the most abundant in Earth's crust and mantle?

A) Oxygen and silicon are the most common elements in the Earth's crust and are two of the most common elements in the Earth's mantle.
B) Oxygen and silicon are the most common elements in the universe and make up the majority of all matter.
C) Silicate minerals are the easiest minerals to create under surface conditions particularly in ocean water) .
D) Silicate minerals are the only minerals that exist in Earth's crust and mantle.

Silicate Minerals

Minerals that contain silicon and oxygen, and possibly other elements, forming the largest and most important class of rock-forming minerals.

Earth's Crust

The outermost layer of Earth, comprising both continental and oceanic crust, and forming the solid surface of the planet.

Earth's Mantle

The thick layer of rock between the Earth's crust and core, making up about 84% of Earth's volume.

  • Familiarize yourself with the configuration and typical elements of the Earth's crust and mantle.
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KM
kairi marksJul 28, 2024
Final Answer :
A
Explanation :
Oxygen and silicon are indeed the most common elements in the Earth's crust and are also prevalent in the mantle, which explains why silicate minerals, composed primarily of silicon and oxygen, are the most abundant.