how does the stability of an atoms nucleus influence its radioactive decay

ATI TEAS 7

Mometrix TEAS 7 science practice test

1. How does the stability of an atom's nucleus influence its radioactive decay?

A. Stable nuclei never undergo radioactive decay.
B. Unstable nuclei are more likely to decay through various processes.
C. Decay releases energy, making stable nuclei more prone to it.
D. The element's position on the periodic table determines its decay rate.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Unstable nuclei are more likely to decay through various processes. The stability of an atom's nucleus is a crucial factor in determining whether it will undergo radioactive decay. Unstable nuclei have an excess of either protons or neutrons, causing an imbalance in the nucleus. To achieve a more stable configuration, these nuclei will undergo radioactive decay by emitting particles or energy. On the contrary, stable nuclei are less likely to undergo radioactive decay as they possess a balanced number of protons and neutrons. Choice A is incorrect because stable nuclei can still undergo radioactive decay, albeit less frequently. Choice C is incorrect as decay does not make stable nuclei more prone to it; rather, it stabilizes them. Choice D is incorrect because an element's decay rate is primarily determined by the nucleus's stability, not its position on the periodic table.

2. Which of the following is a property of amphiprotic substances?

A. React with acids only
B. React with bases only
C. Can act as both acids and bases
D. Are inert in chemical reactions

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Can act as both acids and bases. Amphiprotic substances have the ability to donate a proton (act as an acid) or accept a proton (act as a base) depending on the reaction conditions. This dual nature allows them to participate in a wide range of chemical reactions, making them versatile and important in various chemical processes. Choices A and B are incorrect because amphiprotic substances are not limited to reacting with only acids or bases; they can interact with both. Choice D is incorrect because amphiprotic substances are not inert; they actively participate in chemical reactions by donating or accepting protons.

3. Which locations in the digestive system are sites of chemical digestion? I. Mouth II. Stomach III. Small Intestine

A. II only
B. III only
C. II and III only
D. I, II, and III

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Chemical digestion occurs in all three locations in the digestive system - the mouth, stomach, and small intestine. Enzymes in the saliva break down carbohydrates in the mouth, gastric juices in the stomach help break down proteins, and enzymes in the small intestine further break down macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. The mouth initiates the digestion of carbohydrates, the stomach digests proteins, and the small intestine continues the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Choice A is incorrect because chemical digestion does occur in the mouth. Choice B is incorrect as both the stomach and small intestine are sites of chemical digestion. Choice C is incorrect as the mouth is also a location of chemical digestion, not just the stomach and small intestine.

4. Which blood vessels carry deoxygenated blood from the body back to the right atrium of the heart?

A. Arteries
B. Veins
C. Capillaries
D. Venules

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Veins are the blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood from the body back to the heart. Arteries transport oxygenated blood away from the heart. Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels where gas exchange occurs between blood and tissues. Venules are small veins that connect capillaries to larger veins, but they do not directly carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart.

5. What is the name for the flexible connection between bones at the wrist or ankle?

A. Ligament
B. Tendon
C. Fascia
D. Synovial joint

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Ligament. Ligaments are tough bands of tissue that connect bones to other bones at joints, providing stability and support. In the case of the wrist or ankle, ligaments play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity and allowing for proper movement of these joints. Tendons (option B) connect muscles to bones, not bones to bones. Fascia (option C) is a connective tissue that surrounds muscles and other structures, not connecting bones at joints. A synovial joint (option D) is a type of joint that allows for movement between bones, but it is not the flexible connection between bones at the wrist or ankle.