what is atomic mass

HESI A2

HESI A2 Chemistry

1. What is atomic mass?

A. Number of protons in an atom
B. Sum of protons and neutrons
C. Number of neutrons in an atom
D. Average weight of an element

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Atomic mass, also known as atomic weight, is the sum of the number of protons and neutrons in an atom. It represents the average mass of an atom of an element, taking into account the different isotopes and their relative abundance. Neutrons contribute to the atomic mass alongside protons, while the number of neutrons alone is not the definition of atomic mass. Choice A is incorrect because it refers only to the number of protons, not the complete atomic mass. Choice C is incorrect as it focuses solely on the number of neutrons, excluding the contribution of protons. Choice D is incorrect as it mentions the 'average weight of an element,' which is related to atomic mass but does not encapsulate the specific definition of atomic mass as the sum of protons and neutrons.

2. When balanced, the reaction Fe + Oâ‚‚ â†’ FeO will be?

A. 2Fe + 2Oâ‚‚ â†’ 3FeO
B. 4Fe + 6Oâ‚‚ â†’ 6FeO
C. 2Fe + 3Oâ‚‚ â†’ 2FeO
D. 4Fe + 3Oâ‚‚ â†’ 2FeO

Correct answer: C

Rationale: To balance the chemical equation Fe + Oâ‚‚ â†’ FeO, the coefficients needed are 2 for Fe and 1 for O. Therefore, the balanced equation becomes 2Fe + Oâ‚‚ â†’ 2FeO, which translates into 2Fe + 3Oâ‚‚ â†’ 2FeO. This corresponds to option C. Choice A has the incorrect number of oxygen molecules. Choice B has an incorrect number of Fe atoms on the product side. Choice D also has an incorrect number of Fe atoms on the product side.

3. What are mixtures of 2 or more metals called?

A. Solutions
B. Alloys
C. Compounds
D. Suspensions

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Alloys are mixtures of two or more metals, combining their properties to create materials with enhanced characteristics. Examples of alloys include bronze (copper and tin) and steel (iron and carbon). Alloys are commonly used in various industries due to their improved strength, durability, and other desirable qualities. Solutions (Choice A) refer to a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances, where one substance is dissolved in another. Compounds (Choice C) are substances composed of two or more elements chemically combined in fixed proportions. Suspensions (Choice D) are heterogeneous mixtures where particles are dispersed but can settle out over time.

4. What is the oxidation state of the potassium ion in the compound KCl?

A. +1
B. -1
C. +2
D. -2

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the compound KCl (potassium chloride), potassium is in Group 1 of the periodic table, which means it has a valence electron of 1. Chlorine is in Group 17 and gains one electron to achieve a stable electron configuration by forming an ionic bond with potassium. As a result, the potassium ion in KCl has a +1 oxidation state. Therefore, the correct answer is +1. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not reflect the oxidation state of the potassium ion in KCl.

5. What is the normal body temperature in Â°C?

A. 36Â°C
B. 37Â°C
C. 35Â°C
D. 40Â°C

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The normal body temperature for humans is 37Â°C. This temperature is considered average and is a standard reference point for assessing an individual's health status. It is essential for the body to maintain this temperature to ensure optimal functioning of various physiological processes. Choice A (36Â°C) is incorrect as it is slightly below the normal body temperature. Choice C (35Â°C) is also incorrect as it is significantly lower than the normal body temperature. Choice D (40Â°C) is incorrect as it is significantly higher than the normal body temperature and would indicate a fever or other health issue.