What is the chemical symbol for oxygen?

The chemical symbol for oxygen is O, and it is frequently written as O2. This is because when oxygen is not chemically combined with anything else, it hangs around with a buddy. Oxygen is said to be a diatomic molecule, and that's how we encounter it in air. It is a member of the chalcogengroup on the periodic table and is a highly reactivenonmetallic element and oxidizing agent that readily formscompounds (notably oxides) with most elements.

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41 Comments

Carmel Herbert

So for all the people doing put downs; do you think that everyone has had the same education or opportunities as you? Take a look around, instead of inflicting us with your self centred attitudes, be encouraged that some people are learning from this club, information they have, for whatever reason, missed out on before! I am sure some of you just google the answers anyway. I just guess if I don’t know, and who cares, none of your business! Just worry about yourself, leave others alone, you are just bullies.

Cheryl Perkins

There are some very smug people on here who think that if someone gets the question wrong they are a dummy. Don't be so damn judgemental.

Linda Spreng

In response to all of the folks who are outraged by highly critical comments ... I agree 100%. My dad used to say "Nobody is smarter than anyone else, they just know different stuff." He's been dead over 50 years and that's still the best I've hears.

larrywagner

Ever notice the people that complain about others are real bung holes. Look that up on Google.

docluci

I always think of it as O2!!!!!

Louise C.

Carmel Herbert, Very well said.

John Burtonwood

Carmel Herbert, well said!

Chris Braun

I love when we get chemistry questions. I'm a biology major but I tutor chemistry since so much of biology is chemistry. As far as people being morons, the people who struggle with the science questions would school me in the pop culture categories

hazelphyllis

The 2 refers to the number of atoms per molecule eg H2O (water) 1 atom hydrogen + 2 atoms oxygen = water

Aaron Freeman

Once in a while I've selected the right answer but the phone picked the wrong one.

Albert

Shouldn't it be O2?

babolataeropro

Carmel Herbert, The more educated or knowledge obtained; some people think they are superior; but yet have thin skin. Seems there is need to belittle others to fill a VOID they may have within their soul.