TASK DEFINITION: You are given a science question (easy-level) and four answer options (associated with "A", "B", "C", "D"). Your task is to find the correct answer based on scientific facts, knowledge, and reasoning. Do not generate anything else apart from one of the following characters: 'A', 'B, 'C', 'D'. There is only one correct answer for each question.
PROBLEM: Which location on Earth receives the most direct sunlight?  
 (A) the deserts (B) the South Pole (C) the equator (D) the Western Hemisphere

SOLUTION: C

PROBLEM: Which of these will best separate a saltwater solution?  
 (A) using a paper filtering system (B) using chromatography (C) allowing the salt to settle (D) allowing the water to evaporate

SOLUTION: D

PROBLEM: When magnesium (Mg) metal is burned in the presence of oxygen (O?), magnesium oxide (MgO) is produced. The properties of magnesium oxide are different than the individual properties of magnesium and oxygen because magnesium oxide is      
 (A) a solution. (B) a mixture. (C) a compound. (D) an element.

SOLUTION:
C