HESI A2
Chemistry HESI A2 Practice Test
1. How many neutrons are in an atom of uranium-235?
- A. 92
- B. 125
- C. 143
- D. 235
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: '92'. To determine the number of neutrons in an atom, you subtract the atomic number (number of protons) from the atomic mass number. For uranium-235, the atomic number is 92, and the atomic mass number is 235. Subtracting 92 from 235 gives us 143 neutrons in an atom of uranium-235. Therefore, options B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not represent the correct number of neutrons in an atom of uranium-235.
2. What defines a balanced chemical equation?
- A. An equation where the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides
- B. An equation where there are more products than reactants
- C. An equation where the number of molecules is balanced
- D. An equation with equal masses on both sides
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A balanced chemical equation is one in which the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides. This balance ensures the law of conservation of mass is upheld, where the total mass of the reactants equals the total mass of the products. Options B, C, and D are incorrect. Option B is incorrect as a balanced equation has an equal number of products and reactants. Option C is incorrect as balancing refers to the number of atoms, not molecules. Option D is incorrect as balancing is based on the number of atoms, not masses. Therefore, option A is the correct choice as it accurately describes a balanced chemical equation.
3. 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.'
4. What is the correct formula for potassium chloride?
- A. NaCl
- B. KCl
- C. KCl
- D. ClK
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct formula for potassium chloride is KCl. In chemical formulas, the symbol for the cation (positive ion) comes first followed by the symbol for the anion (negative ion). Potassium is represented by the symbol K, while chloride is represented by the symbol Cl. Therefore, the formula for potassium chloride is KCl. Choice A (NaCl) is the formula for sodium chloride, not potassium chloride. Choice C is a duplicate of choice B, and choice D (ClK) is an incorrect arrangement of the symbols for potassium and chloride.
5. What is the chemical reaction that involves breaking down a compound into component parts?
- A. Decomposition
- B. Synthesis
- C. Combustion
- D. Single replacement
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Decomposition is the correct answer because in a decomposition reaction, a compound is broken down into simpler substances. This type of reaction involves the splitting of a compound into its component parts, often through the use of heat, light, or electricity. Synthesis (choice B) is the opposite process where simpler substances are combined to form a more complex compound. Combustion (choice C) is a reaction involving rapid oxidation often accompanied by heat and light. Single replacement (choice D) is a reaction where one element replaces another in a compound.
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