Ammonium nitrate formula identifies its elements

Steps:

• Recall the chemical formula of ammonium nitrate: NH₄NO₃.
• Break down the formula: NH₄ represents ammonium ion with nitrogen (N) and hydrogen (H); NO₃ represents nitrate ion with nitrogen (N) and oxygen (O).
• List unique elements: N (appears in both ions), H (in ammonium), O (in nitrate).
• Count distinct elements: Three (N, H, O).

Why B is correct:

• The formula NH₄NO₃ contains exactly three elements: nitrogen, hydrogen, and oxygen, as per standard chemical composition.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Underestimates by ignoring oxygen in the nitrate group.
• C: Overcounts, possibly confusing with additional ions or compounds.
• D: Excessively high, mistaking for a more complex substance.

Final answer: B