Question

Which of the following set of elements is present in apatite?

• A. Mg, P and S
• B. Ca, P and O
• C. Al, Mg and P
• D. Ca, S and O

Hint:

Think of bones and teeth—they need Calcium and Phosphates (which contain P and O).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Apatite represents a group of very common phosphate minerals. Knowing the general chemical composition of this mineral family allows us to easily identify its core constituent elements.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Approach: Recall the general chemical formula for the apatite group of minerals to identify the primary elements that form its lattice structure.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The apatite group consists of isomorphous minerals characterized by the general chemical formula $\text{Ca}_5(\text{PO}_4)_3(\text{F, Cl, OH})$. Common specific varieties include: - Fluorapatite: $\text{Ca}_5(\text{PO}_4)_3\text{F}$ (the most common geological form) - Chlorapatite: $\text{Ca}_5(\text{PO}_4)_3\text{Cl}$ - Hydroxylapatite: $\text{Ca}_5(\text{PO}_4)_3\text{OH}$ (the primary mineral constituent of bone and teeth) By examining the general chemical formula, the primary elements that constantly make up the structural framework of all apatite minerals are: - Calcium ($\text{Ca}$) - Phosphorus ($\text{P}$) - Oxygen ($\text{O}$) Looking at the given options, only set (B) contains this specific combination of elements.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Apatite fundamentally contains the elements Ca, P, and O.