The correct answer is: B. Hydrocarbons
Petroleum is a naturally occurring liquid found in geological formations beneath the Earth’s surface. It is a mixture of hydrocarbons, which are compounds made up of hydrogen and carbon atoms. The hydrocarbons in petroleum are typically in the form of gases, liquids, and solids. The gases are mostly methane, ethane, and propane. The liquids are mostly gasoline, diesel fuel, and kerosene. The solids are mostly asphalt and tar.
Petroleum is a valuable resource because it can be used to produce a variety of products, including gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel, heating oil, asphalt, and plastics. It is also a major source of energy.
The other options are incorrect because:
- Elements are the basic building blocks of matter. They are not found in petroleum.
- Polymers are large molecules made up of many smaller molecules. They are not found in petroleum.
- Salts are compounds that are formed when an acid reacts with a base. They are not found in petroleum.