b si as te at ge and sb form a staircase pattern on the right side of the periodic table how can these elements be classified

HESI A2

Chemistry HESI A2 Practice Test

1. Which classification best describes B, Si, As, Te, At, Ge, and Sb that form a staircase pattern on the right side of the periodic table?

A. Metals
B. Semimetals
C. Nonmetals
D. Ultrametals

Correct answer: B

Rationale: B, Si, As, Te, At, Ge, and Sb are located in a staircase pattern on the periodic table's right side. Elements in this region are known as metalloids or semimetals because they exhibit properties of both metals and nonmetals. They possess characteristics of both metallic and non-metallic elements, making them valuable semiconductors with diverse applications in electronics. Choice A is incorrect because these elements are not considered true metals. Choice C is incorrect as these elements do not display typical nonmetal properties exclusively. Choice D, 'Ultrametals,' is not a recognized classification in chemistry and is therefore incorrect.

2. 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.

3. What is the normal body temperature in °C?

A. 36°C
B. 37°C
C. 35°C
D. 40°C

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The normal body temperature for humans is 37°C. This temperature is considered average and is a standard reference point for assessing an individual's health status. It is essential for the body to maintain this temperature to ensure optimal functioning of various physiological processes. Choice A (36°C) is incorrect as it is slightly below the normal body temperature. Choice C (35°C) is also incorrect as it is significantly lower than the normal body temperature. Choice D (40°C) is incorrect as it is significantly higher than the normal body temperature and would indicate a fever or other health issue.

4. How many pairs of electrons are shared between two atoms in a single bond?

A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a single bond, two atoms share one pair of electrons. This shared pair of electrons is what holds the atoms together in the bond. Therefore, the correct answer is A: 1. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not represent the number of electron pairs shared in a single bond.

5. What is 0 K equal to in °C?

A. -300°C
B. -273°C
C. -250°C
D. -200°C

Correct answer: B

Rationale: 0 Kelvin, also known as absolute zero, is equal to -273°C. This is the point at which all molecular motion stops, making it the lowest possible temperature on the Kelvin scale. Choice A (-300°C) is incorrect as it is not the correct conversion of 0 K to °C. Choice C (-250°C) and Choice D (-200°C) are also incorrect as they do not correspond to the accurate conversion of 0 K to °C.