the operating principle of a metal detector relies on

HESI A2

HESI A2 Physics

1. The operating principle of a metal detector relies on:

A. The static presence of a permanent magnet
B. The electromotive force induced by a changing magnetic field
C. The high electrical conductivity of most metals
D. The unique thermal signature of metallic objects

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Metal detectors work based on the principle of electromotive force induced by a changing magnetic field. When a metal object comes into contact with the detector's magnetic field, it disrupts the field, inducing a current in the metal that can be detected. This principle allows metal detectors to identify the presence of metallic objects without relying on the static presence of a permanent magnet, the high electrical conductivity of metals, or the thermal signature of the objects. Choice A is incorrect because metal detectors do not rely on a static magnet but on the interaction of metals with a changing magnetic field. Choice C is incorrect because while metals do have high electrical conductivity, this is not the principle underlying metal detectors. Choice D is incorrect because metal detectors do not operate based on the thermal signature of objects, but rather on their interaction with magnetic fields.

2. When a dielectric material is inserted between the plates of a charged capacitor, what will happen to the capacitance?

A. Increase
B. Decrease
C. Remain the same
D. Become unpredictable

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a dielectric material is inserted between the plates of a charged capacitor, the capacitance will increase. This is because the presence of a dielectric material reduces the electric field between the plates, allowing more charge to be stored for a given voltage, thus increasing the capacitance. Choice B is incorrect because adding a dielectric material increases capacitance. Choice C is incorrect because capacitance changes when a dielectric is added. Choice D is incorrect because the effect of a dielectric on capacitance is predictable.

3. What is the SI unit for quantifying the transfer of energy due to an applied force?

A. Newton (N)
B. Meter per second (m/s)
C. Joule (J)
D. Kilogram (kg)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Joule (J). The joule is the SI unit used to quantify the transfer of energy due to an applied force. It is defined as the work done when a force of one newton is applied over a distance of one meter. Newton (N) is the unit of force, not energy transfer. Meter per second (m/s) is the unit of speed, not energy transfer. Kilogram (kg) is the unit of mass, not energy transfer. Therefore, the correct unit for quantifying the transfer of energy due to an applied force is the joule (J).

4. Which conclusion can be drawn from Ohm’s law?

A. Voltage and current are inversely proportional when resistance is constant.
B. The ratio of the potential difference between the ends of a conductor to current is a constant, R.
C. Voltage is the amount of charge that passes through a point per second.
D. Power (P) can be calculated by multiplying current (I) by voltage (V).

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Ohm's law states that the ratio of the potential difference (voltage) between the ends of a conductor to the current flowing through it is a constant. Mathematically, this is represented as V = I x R, where V is voltage, I is current, and R is the constant resistance. Therefore, the correct conclusion that can be drawn from Ohm's law is that the ratio of the potential difference between the ends of a conductor to current is a constant, denoted as R. This relationship is fundamental to understanding the behavior of electrical circuits and the effect of resistance on voltage and current. Choice A is incorrect because Ohm's law actually states that voltage and current are directly proportional when resistance is constant. Choice C is incorrect because voltage is not the amount of charge that passes through a point per second; rather, it is the electric potential energy per unit charge. Choice D is incorrect because although power (P) can be calculated by multiplying current (I) by voltage (V), this is not a conclusion directly drawn from Ohm's law.

5. Sublimation is the change in matter from solid to gas or gas to solid without passing through a liquid phase. Outside of the laboratory, which solid provides the best example of this?

A. Iron
B. Silver
C. Salt crystal
D. Dry ice

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) provides the best example of sublimation outside of the laboratory. When dry ice is exposed to normal atmospheric conditions, it changes directly from a solid to a gas without passing through a liquid phase. This process is commonly observed in everyday situations such as creating 'smoke' or 'fog' effects. Choices A, B, and C (Iron, Silver, and Salt crystal) do not undergo sublimation. Iron and Silver melt and then vaporize, while Salt crystal dissolves in water, and the resulting solution evaporates, which involves a liquid phase.