Who recognised the elements carbon, hydrogen and oxygen and opposed the phlogiston theory by discovering the role of oxygen in combustion and respiration?

Antoine Lavoisier

The correct answer is Option (1)- Antoine Lavoisier

Antoine-Laurent de Lavoisier, a prominent figure in the 18th-century chemical revolution, played a pivotal role in shaping the history of chemistry and biology. Born a French nobleman, he adopted the name Antoine Lavoisier after the French Revolution. Lavoisier's significant contributions to chemistry were marked by a transformative shift from qualitative to quantitative approaches in the field.

He is well-known for his discovery of the elements carbon (1789), hydrogen (1783), and oxygen (1778) and he opposed the phlogiston theory by discovering the role of oxygen in combustion and respiration. Beyond his elemental discoveries, Lavoisier made lasting contributions by creating the first comprehensive list of elements. He also played a key role in the development of the metric system and instigated reforms in chemical nomenclature.

In essence, Lavoisier's legacy is characterized by a commitment to rigorous experimentation, quantitative analysis, and a systematic approach that laid the foundation for modern chemistry.