The correct answer is C. benzene.
Benzene is a colorless, flammable liquid that is found in gasoline and other petroleum products. It is a known carcinogen, meaning that it can cause cancer. Benzene is also a neurotoxin, meaning that it can damage the nervous system.
Nitrates are salts of nitric acid. They are used as fertilizers and in explosives. Nitrates are not known to be carcinogenic.
Sulfates are salts of sulfuric acid. They are used in detergents, fertilizers, and other industrial products. Sulfates are not known to be carcinogenic.
Phosphates are salts of phosphoric acid. They are used in fertilizers, detergents, and other industrial products. Phosphates are not known to be carcinogenic.
Benzene is a more likely answer than the others because it is a known carcinogen. Nitrates, sulfates, and phosphates are not known to be carcinogenic.