number that represents the number of protons an element has

HESI A2

Chemistry HESI A2 Quizlet

1. What number represents the number of protons an element has?

A. Atomic mass
B. Mass number
C. Atomic number
D. Neutron number

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, atomic number. The atomic number corresponds to the number of protons in an element. This number is unique to each element and determines its placement on the periodic table. It is equal to the number of protons found in the nucleus of an atom of that element. Choice A, atomic mass, represents the average mass of an element's isotopes. Choice B, mass number, is the sum of protons and neutrons in an atom. Choice D, neutron number, specifically refers to the count of neutrons in an atom and not protons.

2. What is 119 K in degrees Celsius?

A. 32°C
B. -154°C
C. 154°C
D. 0°C

Correct answer: B

Rationale: To convert Kelvin (K) to Celsius (°C), you subtract 273.15 from the Kelvin value. Therefore, 119 K - 273.15 = -154.15°C. The negative sign indicates that the temperature is below freezing. When rounded to the nearest whole number, -154.15°C is approximately -154°C. Choice A and Choice C are incorrect as they do not reflect the correct conversion from Kelvin to Celsius. Choice D is incorrect as it corresponds to the freezing point of water in Celsius, not the conversion of 119 K.

3. What charge do Group VA elements typically have?

A. -1
B. -2
C. -3
D. 0

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Group VA elements, also known as Group 15 elements, typically have a charge of -3. This is because they have five valence electrons and tend to gain three electrons to achieve a stable octet configuration, resulting in a -3 charge. Choice A (-1) and Choice B (-2) are incorrect because Group VA elements need to gain three electrons to reach a stable electron configuration, not just one or two. Choice D (0) is also incorrect because Group VA elements do not lose electrons to form a charge of 0.

4. 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.

5. What are neutral particles called?

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

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Neutral particles, which have no electric charge, are known as neutrons. Neutrons are found in the nucleus of an atom along with protons. Electrons carry a negative charge and orbit the nucleus. Cations are positively charged ions formed by losing electrons. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Neutrons' as they are the neutral particles in an atom, unlike protons, electrons, or cations.