balance this equation zn hcl zncl h 2 2

HESI A2

Chemistry Hesi A2

1. Balance this equation: Zn + HCl â†’ ZnCl + H2.

A. Zn + 2HCl â†’ ZnCl + H2
B. Zn + HCl â†’ 2ZnCl + H2
C. 2Zn + 2HCl â†’ 2ZnCl + H2
D. Zn + 4HCl â†’ ZnCl + H2

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The given unbalanced equation is Zn + HCl â†’ ZnCl + H2. To balance it, we need to have equal atoms on both sides of the equation. The balanced equation is 2Zn + 2HCl â†’ 2ZnCl + H2. This balanced equation shows that two atoms of Zn combine with two molecules of HCl to form two molecules of ZnCl and one molecule of H2. Choice A is incorrect because it does not balance the equation. Choice B is incorrect as it does not have the same number of atoms on both sides. Choice D is incorrect because it does not balance the equation properly, resulting in an unequal number of atoms on both sides.

2. What is the typical oxidation state of oxygen in most compounds?

A. -1
B. -2
C. 0
D. -3

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "-2". Oxygen usually exhibits an oxidation state of -2 in most compounds. This is due to oxygen's high electronegativity, which causes it to attract electrons, leading to the gain of two electrons in chemical reactions. Choice A (-1) is incorrect because oxygen rarely has an oxidation state of -1 in compounds. Choice C (0) is incorrect as oxygen does not usually have an oxidation state of zero in compounds. Choice D (-3) is incorrect as oxygen does not commonly have an oxidation state of -3 in compounds.

3. What charge do Group VIIA elements have?

A. -1
B. -2
C. 0
D. 1

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Group VIIA elements, also known as halogens, have a tendency to gain one electron to achieve a stable electron configuration, resulting in a -1 charge. This is because they have seven valence electrons and need one more to complete their octet, making them highly reactive in forming -1 ions. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Choice B (-2) is incorrect because Group VIIA elements typically gain one electron, not two. Choice C (0) is incorrect as these elements tend to form -1 ions by gaining one electron. Choice D (1) is incorrect because Group VIIA elements gain electrons to form negative ions, not positive ones.

4. Where would you expect tap water to fall on the pH scale?

A. Between 1 and 3
B. Between 4 and 6
C. Between 6 and 8
D. Between 8 and 10

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Tap water typically falls within the pH range of 6 to 8, making it slightly acidic to neutral. Most municipal water systems aim to provide water that is safe for consumption and falls within this pH range. A pH level of 7 is considered neutral, so tap water may vary slightly on either side of this number but typically remains within the 6 to 8 range to ensure it is safe for consumption. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because tap water is not expected to have a pH as low as 1-3 (highly acidic) or as high as 8-10 (alkaline); it usually falls within the slightly acidic to neutral range, hence falling between 6 and 8 on the pH scale.

5. In the periodic table, which group contains the alkali metals?

A. Group 7
B. Group 1
C. Group 2
D. Group 3

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is Group 1. Alkali metals are found in Group 1 of the periodic table, which includes elements such as lithium, sodium, and potassium. These elements are known for their high reactivity and tendency to form alkaline solutions when they react with water. Therefore, Group 1 is specifically designated as the group containing alkali metals. Choice A (Group 7) is incorrect as Group 7 contains the halogens. Choice C (Group 2) is incorrect as Group 2 contains the alkaline earth metals. Choice D (Group 3) is incorrect as Group 3 contains the scandium group of elements.