The correct answer is a - silicon dioxide.
Diatoms are single celled algae. They have a silica - based cell wall called a frustule, which gives each diatom a particular shape.
Diatoms exist as separate single cells although some may be found in groups or colonies. The ones found in colonies create very pretty forms: leaf shaped, oval , star and even like a period.
Outer shells of diatoms are quite valuable. They are used in industry in the manufacture of toothpaste to give it grit.