ab a b represents what type of chemical reaction

HESI A2

HESI A2 Chemistry

1. What type of chemical reaction is represented by AB → A + B?

A. Synthesis
B. Decomposition
C. Single replacement
D. Double replacement

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The chemical equation AB → A + B represents a decomposition reaction. In a decomposition reaction, a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler substances. In this specific reaction, compound AB is decomposed into its elements, A and B, making it a decomposition reaction. Choice A, Synthesis, involves the combination of two or more substances to form a more complex product, which is not the case here. Choices C and D, Single replacement and Double replacement, involve the exchange of ions between compounds or elements, which is not happening in the given reaction.

2. How many electrons are in a neutral atom of neon?

A. 9
B. 10
C. 11
D. 12

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The atomic number of neon is 10, which represents the number of protons in its nucleus. In a neutral atom, the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons to maintain electrical neutrality. Therefore, a neutral atom of neon contains 10 electrons, matching the 10 protons within the nucleus. Choice A (9 electrons) is incorrect as it doesn't correspond to the atomic number of neon. Choices C (11 electrons) and D (12 electrons) are also incorrect as they do not align with the correct atomic number of neon.

3. Which substance is a product of photosynthesis?

A. Carbon dioxide
B. Oxygen
C. Water
D. Glucose

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During photosynthesis, plants and other organisms convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. Glucose is a carbohydrate produced by plants as a result of photosynthesis, serving as their main source of energy. Oxygen is released as a byproduct of this process, while carbon dioxide and water are the raw materials used to produce glucose. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Glucose,' making it a vital product of the photosynthesis process. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as carbon dioxide and water are the reactants needed for photosynthesis, and oxygen is released as a byproduct.

4. Which type of radiation emits helium ions and can be stopped by a piece of paper?

A. Beta radiation
B. Alpha radiation
C. Gamma radiation
D. X-ray radiation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Alpha radiation emits helium ions, which are helium nuclei without electrons, making them positively charged. These ions are relatively large and heavy compared to beta and gamma radiation. Due to their size and charge, alpha particles interact strongly with matter and are easily stopped. A piece of paper or even human skin can effectively block alpha radiation. Therefore, alpha radiation is the type of radiation that can be stopped by a piece of paper. Beta radiation consists of fast-moving electrons and can penetrate further into materials than alpha radiation, thus not stopped by a piece of paper. Gamma radiation is highly penetrating and requires dense materials like lead or concrete to block it effectively. X-ray radiation, similar to gamma radiation, is also highly penetrating and cannot be stopped by a piece of paper.

5. What is the name of the compound CH₃-CH₂-CH₂-CH₃?

A. Cyclobutane
B. Butane
C. Butene
D. Butyne

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The compound CH₃-CH₂-CH₂-CH₃ is named butane. Butane is a straight-chain alkane comprising four carbon atoms connected by single bonds. The prefix 'but-' denotes the presence of four carbon atoms, while the suffix '-ane' indicates it is an alkane with single bonds between the carbon atoms. Choice A, Cyclobutane, is incorrect as it refers to a cyclic hydrocarbon with four carbon atoms in a ring structure. Choice C, Butene, is incorrect because it is an alkene with a double bond between two carbon atoms, not a saturated hydrocarbon like butane. Choice D, Butyne, is also incorrect as it is an alkyne with a triple bond between two carbon atoms, unlike the single bonds in butane.