In what sphere do chemicals have the shortest average residence time
a. biosphere
b. lithosphere
c. hydrosphere
d. atmosphere

a. biosphere

Matter moves through the biosphere by being cycled through various organic and inorganic stages. They are neither created nor destroyed. The biosphere is known as a closed system so no elements can escape. They are continually being recycled. 
The flow of energy moves through living organisms via the food chain. A food chain is a diagram which shows how every living thing gets energy to live. Plants use the sun, nutrients in the soil and water to generate energy. Herbivores eat the plants to generate energy to survive. Carnivores eat the herbivores to generate energy.