HESI A2
HESI A2 Chemistry
1. Among the following elements, which is a nonmetal?
- A. Mercury
- B. Magnesium
- C. Sulfur
- D. Potassium
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Sulfur is a nonmetal as it is located on the right side of the periodic table. Nonmetals generally exhibit properties such as being brittle, poor conductors of heat and electricity, and having lower melting points compared to metals. Mercury (A), Magnesium (B), and Potassium (D) are all metals due to their metallic properties. Mercury is a liquid metal at room temperature, Magnesium is a solid metal, and Potassium is a solid metal as well. Therefore, the correct answer is C, Sulfur.
2. Which type of radiation involves the emission of helium ions?
- A. Beta
- B. Alpha
- C. Gamma
- D. Delta
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Alpha radiation involves the emission of helium ions. Helium ions are composed of two protons and two neutrons, which is the same as the nucleus of a helium atom. This type of radiation has low penetration power and can be stopped by a piece of paper or human skin, making it less harmful compared to other forms of radiation like beta or gamma radiation. Beta radiation involves the emission of high-speed electrons, while gamma radiation involves electromagnetic waves with high energy. Delta radiation is not a recognized form of radiation in this context, making it an incorrect choice.
3. What term is used to describe the emission of particles from an unstable nucleus?
- A. Radioactivity
- B. Radiation
- C. Decay
- D. Fusion
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Radioactivity is the term used to describe the emission of particles from an unstable nucleus. When a nucleus is unstable, it undergoes radioactive decay by emitting particles such as alpha or beta particles. This process releases energy and transforms the unstable nucleus into a more stable configuration. Choice B, 'Radiation,' is a broad term that encompasses various forms of energy emitted from a source; it is not specific to the emission from an unstable nucleus. Choice C, 'Decay,' is closely related but doesn't specifically indicate the emission of particles from an unstable nucleus. Choice D, 'Fusion,' refers to the process of combining nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, not the emission of particles from an unstable nucleus.
4. What effect does increasing the surface area of a reactant have?
- A. Decreases the reaction rate
- B. Has no effect
- C. Increases the reaction rate
- D. Stops the reaction
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Increasing the surface area of a reactant leads to more particles being exposed to the reaction, which in turn increases the reaction rate. This is because a larger surface area provides more sites for collisions between reacting particles, resulting in a higher frequency of successful collisions and thus accelerating the reaction. Choice A, 'Decreases the reaction rate,' is incorrect because increasing surface area actually accelerates the reaction. Choice B, 'Has no effect,' is incorrect as increasing surface area does have a significant effect on the reaction rate. Choice D, 'Stops the reaction,' is incorrect as increasing surface area does not stop the reaction but rather enhances it.
5. Which substance forms hydroxide ions when placed in water?
- A. Lemon juice
- B. Battery acid
- C. Vinegar
- D. Lye
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, lye. Lye, also known as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), is a strong base that forms hydroxide ions (OH-) when placed in water. When lye dissolves in water, it dissociates into sodium ions (Na+) and hydroxide ions, making it an alkaline substance. Lemon juice, battery acid, and vinegar do not form hydroxide ions when placed in water. Lemon juice contains citric acid, battery acid contains sulfuric acid, and vinegar contains acetic acid, none of which produce hydroxide ions when dissolved in water.
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