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. 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.
3. Which of the following represents a hydride ion?
- A. H⁻
- B. H⁺
- C. OH⁻
- D. HCl
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The hydride ion is denoted by H⁻, indicating that it has gained an extra electron to complete its valence shell, resulting in a full octet and a net charge of -1. This ion is commonly found in metal hydrides and plays a significant role in various chemical reactions. Option B, H⁺, represents a proton with a positive charge. Option C, OH⁻, represents the hydroxide ion, consisting of oxygen and hydrogen. Option D, HCl, is a compound composed of hydrogen and chlorine ions, not a hydride ion.
4. In which state of matter are particles packed tightly together in a fixed position?
- A. Liquid
- B. Solid
- C. Gas
- D. Plasma
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In a 'solid' state, particles are tightly packed in fixed positions, maintaining a definite shape and volume. This arrangement allows solids to maintain a rigid structure. Liquids have particles that are close together but can move past each other, giving them the ability to flow and take the shape of their container. Gases have particles that are far apart and move freely, leading to their ability to expand to fill any container. Plasma is an ionized gas where particles have high energy levels and are not packed tightly together, making it an uncommon state of matter on Earth.
5. Which type of radiation emits helium ions and can be stopped by a piece of paper?
- A. Beta radiation
- B. Alpha radiation
- C. Gamma radiation
- D. X-ray radiation
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Alpha radiation emits helium ions, which are helium nuclei without electrons, making them positively charged. These ions are relatively large and heavy compared to beta and gamma radiation. Due to their size and charge, alpha particles interact strongly with matter and are easily stopped. A piece of paper or even human skin can effectively block alpha radiation. Therefore, alpha radiation is the type of radiation that can be stopped by a piece of paper. Beta radiation consists of fast-moving electrons and can penetrate further into materials than alpha radiation, thus not stopped by a piece of paper. Gamma radiation is highly penetrating and requires dense materials like lead or concrete to block it effectively. X-ray radiation, similar to gamma radiation, is also highly penetrating and cannot be stopped by a piece of paper.
Similar Questions
Access More Features
HESI A2 Basic
$89/ 30 days
- 3,000 Questions with answers
- 30 days access
HESI A2 Premium
$129.99/ 90 days
- Actual HESI A2 Questions
- 3,000 questions with answers
- 90 days access