in an adiabatic process there is

HESI A2

HESI A2 Physics

1. In an adiabatic process, there is:

A. No heat transfer (Q = 0) between the system and the surroundings.
B. Isothermal compression or expansion (constant temperature).
C. Constant pressure throughout the process (isobaric process).
D. No change in the system's internal energy (energy is conserved according to the first law).

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In an adiabatic process, choice A is correct because adiabatic processes involve no heat transfer between the system and its surroundings (Q = 0). This lack of heat transfer is a defining characteristic of adiabatic processes. Choices B, C, and D do not accurately describe an adiabatic process. Choice B refers to an isothermal process where temperature remains constant, not adiabatic. Choice C describes an isobaric process with constant pressure, not specific to adiabatic processes. Choice D mentions the conservation of energy but does not directly relate to the absence of heat transfer in adiabatic processes.

2. Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction states that a changing magnetic field in a conductor induces a/an:

A. Increase in resistance
B. Electromotive force
C. Static electric charge
D. Decrease in capacitance

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction states that a changing magnetic field induces an electromotive force in a conductor. This electromotive force is responsible for generating electricity in power plants and various electrical devices. The induced current is a result of the changing magnetic field, not an increase in resistance (choice A), static electric charge (choice C), or a decrease in capacitance (choice D). Hence, the correct answer is B.

3. In terms of electrical conductivity, semiconductors fall between

A. Conductors and insulators
B. Conductors and superconductors
C. Insulators and dielectrics
D. Superconductors and insulators

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Semiconductors have electrical conductivities that lie between those of conductors (high conductivity) and insulators (low conductivity). This positioning makes choice A, 'Conductors and insulators,' the correct answer. Choice B, 'Conductors and superconductors,' is incorrect because superconductors have perfect conductivity, not intermediate like semiconductors. Choice C, 'Insulators and dielectrics,' is incorrect because dielectrics are a type of insulator, so it doesn't show the progression from high to low conductivity. Choice D, 'Superconductors and insulators,' is incorrect because superconductors have the highest conductivity, opposite to the role of semiconductors.

4. A closed system undergoes a cyclic process, returning to its initial state. What can be said about the net work done (Wnet) by the system over the entire cycle?

A. Wnet is always positive.
B. Wnet is always negative.
C. Wnet can be positive, negative, or zero.
D. Wnet is equal to the total heat transferred into the system (dQ ≠ 0 for a cycle).

Correct answer: C

Rationale: For a closed system undergoing a cyclic process and returning to its initial state, the net work done (Wnet) over the entire cycle can be positive, negative, or zero. This is because the work done is determined by the area enclosed by the cycle on a P-V diagram, and this area can be above, below, or intersecting the zero work axis, leading to positive, negative, or zero net work done. Choice A is incorrect because Wnet is not always positive; it depends on the specific path taken on the P-V diagram. Choice B is incorrect as Wnet is not always negative; it varies based on the enclosed area. Choice D is incorrect because Wnet is not necessarily equal to the total heat transferred into the system; it depends on the specifics of the cycle and is not a direct relationship.

5. In an electrically neutral atom, the number of:

A. Electrons is equal to protons
B. Protons is equal to neutrons
C. Neutrons are always greater than protons
D. Electrons are always less than protons

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In an electrically neutral atom, the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons. Electrons carry a negative charge, protons carry a positive charge, and neutrons are neutral. Since the atom is electrically neutral, the positive charge of the protons must balance the negative charge of the electrons, making the numbers of electrons and protons equal. Choice B is incorrect because protons are not equal to neutrons in an atom. Choice C is incorrect because neutrons are not always greater than protons, and choice D is incorrect because electrons are not always less than protons in an atom.