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. Household alternating current typically has a frequency of 60 Hz. Which statement is true?

A. The circuit is suitable for lighting 60-watt bulbs.
B. Circuits in the home may carry a current of 60 amperes.
C. The expected voltage drop is 60 volts per meter.
D. Electrons complete a cycle 60 times per second.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Electrons complete a cycle 60 times per second when the frequency of the current is 60 Hz. This frequency indicates that the current changes direction 60 times per second, causing the electrons to complete a full cycle back and forth through the circuit at the same rate. Choice A is incorrect because the power rating of a bulb (in watts) is not directly related to the frequency of the current. Choice B is incorrect as typical household circuits do not carry currents as high as 60 amperes. Choice C is incorrect as the expected voltage drop is not measured in volts per meter for household alternating current circuits.

3. Why are boats more buoyant in salt water than in fresh water?

A. Salt decreases the mass of the boats.
B. Salt increases the volume of the water.
C. Salt affects the density of the boats.
D. Salt increases the density of the water.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Salt increases the density of water, making saltwater more buoyant than freshwater. The higher density of saltwater provides more lift to a boat, enabling it to float more easily compared to in freshwater. Choice A is incorrect because salt does not affect the mass of the boats. Choice B is incorrect as salt does not increase the volume of water. Choice C is incorrect since salt affects the density of water, not the boats themselves. Therefore, the correct answer is that salt increases the density of the water, resulting in boats being more buoyant in salt water than in fresh water.

4. Capillarity describes the tendency of fluids to rise or fall in narrow tubes. This phenomenon arises from the interplay of:

A. Buoyancy and pressure differentials
B. Density variations and compressibility of the fluid
C. Viscous dissipation and inertial effects
D. Surface tension at the liquid-gas interface and intermolecular forces

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Capillarity occurs due to surface tension and intermolecular forces between the liquid and the walls of the narrow tube. These forces cause the liquid to rise or fall depending on the cohesion and adhesion properties. Surface tension at the liquid-gas interface and intermolecular forces are responsible for capillary action, making choice D the correct answer. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not directly relate to the specific forces involved in capillarity.

5. The speed of sound in dry air at 20°C is 343 m/s. If the wavelength of a sound wave is 5 m, what is its frequency?

A. 171.5 Hz
B. 79 Hz
C. 68.6 Hz
D. 63.6 Hz

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The speed of sound (v) can be calculated using the formula: v = f × λ, where f is the frequency and λ is the wavelength. Given that the speed of sound is 343 m/s and the wavelength is 5 m, we can rearrange the formula to solve for frequency: f = v / λ = 343 / 5 = 68.6 Hz. Therefore, the correct frequency is 68.6 Hz. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not result from the correct calculation based on the given values.