Diatomaceous earth is formed due to which substance ?
(a) Phosphorus
(b) Calcium
(c) Silicon
(d) Copper

Options

A. Phosphorus
B. Calcium
C. Silicon
D. Copper

Answer

To determine which substance forms diatomaceous earth, we can follow these steps:

1. **Understanding Diatomaceous Earth**: Diatomaceous earth is a sedimentary rock that is primarily composed of the fossilized remains of diatoms, which are a type of unicellular algae.

2. **Identifying Diatoms**: Diatoms are unicellular eukaryotic organisms that belong to the group of algae. They have unique characteristics that set them apart from other organisms.

3. **Cell Wall Composition**: The cell walls of diatoms are made up of silica, which is a compound of silicon and oxygen. This silica gives diatoms their rigid structure and is crucial for their survival.

4. **Formation of Diatomaceous Earth**: When diatoms die, their silica-rich cell walls accumulate on the ocean floor or other bodies of water. Over time, these accumulated remains form diatomaceous earth.

5. **Choosing the Correct Option**: Given the options provided:
- (a) Phosphorus
- (b) Calcium
- (c) Silicon
- (d) Copper

Since diatomaceous earth is primarily composed of silica, the correct answer is (c) Silicon.

**Final Answer**: (c) Silicon

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