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. What happens in a single displacement reaction?

A. A compound decomposes into two substances.
B. An active element displaces a less active element.
C. A precipitate solid forms from the reaction of two solutions.
D. The oxidation states of atoms in the reactants change.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a single displacement reaction, an active element displaces a less active element in a compound. This process involves one element replacing another in a compound, resulting in the formation of a new compound. Option A is incorrect because a single displacement reaction does not involve the decomposition of a compound into two substances. Option C is incorrect because it describes a precipitation reaction, not a single displacement reaction. Option D is incorrect because it describes oxidation-reduction reactions, not specifically single displacement reactions.

3. In the periodic table, which group contains the alkali metals?

A. Group 7
B. Group 1
C. Group 2
D. Group 3

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is Group 1. Alkali metals are found in Group 1 of the periodic table, which includes elements such as lithium, sodium, and potassium. These elements are known for their high reactivity and tendency to form alkaline solutions when they react with water. Therefore, Group 1 is specifically designated as the group containing alkali metals. Choice A (Group 7) is incorrect as Group 7 contains the halogens. Choice C (Group 2) is incorrect as Group 2 contains the alkaline earth metals. Choice D (Group 3) is incorrect as Group 3 contains the scandium group of elements.

4. What is another name for aqueous HI?

A. hydroiodic acid
B. hydrogen monoiodide
C. hydrogen iodide
D. hydriodic acid

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct name for aqueous HI is 'hydriodic acid.' When hydrogen iodide (HI) dissolves in water, it forms hydriodic acid. Therefore, 'hydriodic acid' is the appropriate term for aqueous HI. Choice A, 'hydroiodic acid,' is incorrect as it does not reflect the nature of the compound in the aqueous state. Choice B, 'hydrogen monoiodide,' is not a widely recognized term for this compound. Choice C, 'hydrogen iodide,' is the name for HI in the gaseous state, not when it's dissolved in water.

5. The molar mass of some gases is as follows: carbon monoxide—28.01 g/mol; helium—4.00 g/mol; nitrogen—28.01 g/mol; and oxygen—32.00 g/mol. Which would you expect to diffuse most rapidly?

A. Carbon monoxide
B. Helium
C. Nitrogen
D. Oxygen

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The rate of diffusion is inversely proportional to the molar mass of the gas. Helium has the lowest molar mass among the given gases, making it the lightest and fastest gas to diffuse. Therefore, helium would be expected to diffuse most rapidly compared to carbon monoxide, nitrogen, and oxygen. Carbon monoxide, nitrogen, and oxygen have higher molar masses than helium, so they would diffuse more slowly. Therefore, the correct answer is helium.