Which element is represented by the symbol O?

The symbol "O" in the periodic table represents the element oxygen. Every chemical element is assigned a unique one- or two-letter symbol, which is usually derived from its English name or its Latin name. In this case, the letter "O" directly corresponds to oxygen, an essential element that plays a critical role in respiration for both plants and animals. It is vital for the process of aerobic metabolism, where glucose is oxidized to produce energy in the presence of oxygen.

The other symbols mentioned—C, N, and P—represent different elements. "C" stands for carbon, which is foundational for organic molecules. "N" designates nitrogen, an essential component of amino acids and nucleic acids. "P" refers to phosphorus, which is important in biological systems for energy transfer via ATP and as a component of DNA and RNA. Each of these elements has its own distinct role in biological and chemical processes.