What are the raw materials used in the manufacture of sulfuric acid?

The production of sulfuric acid predominantly involves sulfur, which is typically extracted from ores, and oxygen, which is sourced from the air. This process is part of the contact process, where sulfur dioxide (SO₂) is formed by burning sulfur in the presence of oxygen. The sulfur dioxide is then oxidized into sulfur trioxide (SO₃) in the presence of a vanadium(V) oxide catalyst. The final step involves the reaction of sulfur trioxide with water to form sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄).

This choice, involving sulfur and oxygen, reflects the fundamental raw materials integral to the commercially viable synthesis of sulfuric acid, making it the correct answer.