What is the total number of naturally occurring elements ?

114

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UPSC CDS-2 – 2023

Naturally occurring elements are those found on Earth. This typically includes elements that exist in substantial quantities as well as those found in trace amounts resulting from natural decay processes.

Elements up to atomic number 92 (Uranium) are generally considered naturally occurring on Earth in macroscopic quantities. Elements with atomic numbers 93 (Neptunium) and 94 (Plutonium) also occur naturally, but only in trace amounts, primarily as products of neutron capture and radioactive decay of Uranium. Elements beyond 94 are predominantly synthetic, created in laboratories or nuclear reactions, although some very heavy elements might exist fleetingly in specific astrophysical events.

Based on the common understanding and options provided, the number of naturally occurring elements including those in trace amounts is considered to be 94 (up to Plutonium). Some definitions might limit it to 92 (up to Uranium) if excluding elements only found from decay chains or in trace quantities. However, 94 is the most appropriate choice among the given options.

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