HESI A2
HESI A2 Chemistry Questions
1. Which of the following elements does not exist as a diatomic molecule?
- A. boron
- B. fluorine
- C. oxygen
- D. nitrogen
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is 'boron.' Diatomic molecules consist of two atoms of the same element bonded together. Boron is an exception and does not exist naturally as a diatomic molecule. On the other hand, fluorine, oxygen, and nitrogen commonly exist as diatomic molecules in their natural states. Fluorine, for example, exists as F2, oxygen exists as O2, and nitrogen exists as N2.
2. Which chemical reaction involves the breaking of a compound into its components?
- A. Decomposition reaction
- B. Combustion reaction
- C. Neutralization reaction
- D. Single displacement reaction
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Decomposition reaction. A decomposition reaction involves breaking down a compound into its components. During this reaction, a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler substances. This process is the opposite of a synthesis reaction where multiple substances combine to form a more complex compound. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because combustion reaction involves burning a substance in oxygen, neutralization reaction involves the reaction between an acid and a base to form water and a salt, and single displacement reaction involves an element displacing another in a compound.
3. Which element is a metalloid?
- A. Silicon
- B. Lead
- C. Helium
- D. Aluminum
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Silicon.' Silicon is a metalloid, which means it has properties of both metals and nonmetals. It is commonly used in electronic devices due to its semiconductor properties. Lead (Choice B) is a metal, Helium (Choice C) is a noble gas, and Aluminum (Choice D) is a metal.
4. What is the name of the phase change from liquid to gas?
- A. Condensation
- B. Sublimation
- C. Evaporation
- D. Melting
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Evaporation.' This phase change occurs when a liquid turns into a gas. During evaporation, molecules gain enough energy to break free from the liquid phase and enter the gas phase, without the need for the liquid to reach its boiling point. Choice A, 'Condensation,' is the opposite phase change where gas turns into a liquid. Choice B, 'Sublimation,' is the phase change from solid directly to gas, skipping the liquid phase. Choice D, 'Melting,' is the phase change from solid to liquid.
5. Which of the following is a characteristic of a chemical change?
- A. Change in shape
- B. Production of gas
- C. Melting
- D. Freezing
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The production of gas is a characteristic of a chemical change. During a chemical change, new substances are formed, often with the release or absorption of energy. The production of gas is a significant indicator of a chemical change because it indicates the formation of new compounds through chemical reactions. Choices A, C, and D are not characteristics of chemical changes. Changes in shape, melting, and freezing are physical changes where the substance's identity remains the same, unlike in chemical changes where new substances with different properties are formed.
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