how many amino acids are essential for human life

HESI A2

HESI A2 Chemistry Practice Test

1. How many amino acids are essential for human life?

A. 22
B. 20
C. 18
D. 24

Correct answer: B

Rationale: There are 20 essential amino acids required for human life. These amino acids cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained through the diet. They play crucial roles in various physiological functions and are necessary for protein synthesis and overall health. Choice A is incorrect because there are not 22 essential amino acids. Choice C is incorrect as there are more than 18 essential amino acids. Choice D is incorrect as there are not 24 essential amino acids for human life.

2. What type of reactions take place in the nucleus to achieve stable nuclear configurations?

A. Chemical
B. Nuclear
C. Physical
D. Mechanical

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Nuclear reactions occur within the nucleus to achieve stable nuclear configurations. These reactions involve changes in the composition of atomic nuclei, leading to the formation of more stable elements. Chemical reactions occur in the electron cloud surrounding the nucleus, while physical and mechanical processes do not directly impact the stability of nuclear configurations. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Nuclear.'

3. Beta radiation is the product of the decomposition of which particle?

A. Proton
B. Neutron
C. Electron
D. Photon

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Beta radiation is the result of the decomposition of a neutron. During beta decay, a neutron in an atom's nucleus is transformed into a proton, an electron (beta particle), and an antineutrino. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Neutron.' Choice A, 'Proton,' is incorrect because beta decay does not involve the decomposition of a proton. Choice C, 'Electron,' is incorrect because electrons are actually produced during beta decay. Choice D, 'Photon,' is incorrect as beta radiation does not involve the decomposition of photons.

4. What are positively charged ions called?

A. Neutrons
B. Protons
C. Cations
D. Electrons

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Positively charged ions are called cations. When an atom loses electrons, it becomes positively charged and is referred to as a cation. Neutrons are neutral particles found in the nucleus of an atom, not charged. Protons are positively charged particles in the nucleus. Electrons are negatively charged particles orbiting the nucleus, not positively charged ions.

5. 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.