what type of radiation emits helium ions and can be stopped by a piece of paper

HESI A2

HESI A2 Chemistry Practice Test

1. 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.

2. How many amino acids are essential for human life?

A. 22
B. 20
C. 18
D. 24

Correct answer: B

Rationale: There are 20 essential amino acids required for human life. These amino acids cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained through the diet. They play crucial roles in various physiological functions and are necessary for protein synthesis and overall health. Choice A is incorrect because there are not 22 essential amino acids. Choice C is incorrect as there are more than 18 essential amino acids. Choice D is incorrect as there are not 24 essential amino acids for human life.

3. What is the correct electron configuration for lithium?

A. 1s²2s¹
B. 1s²2s²
C. 1s²2s¹2p¹
D. 1s¹2s¹2p²

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The electron configuration for lithium is 1s²2s¹. Lithium has 3 electrons, and the configuration indicates that the first two electrons fill the 1s orbital, while the third electron fills the 2s orbital. Therefore, the correct electron configuration for lithium is 1s²2s¹. Choice B (1s²2s²) is incorrect as it represents the electron configuration for beryllium, not lithium. Choice C (1s²2s¹2p¹) includes the 2p orbital, which is not involved in lithium's electron configuration. Choice D (1s¹2s¹2p²) is incorrect as it does not accurately represent lithium's electron configuration.

4. What can stop the penetration of gamma radiation?

A. Aluminum foil
B. Glass
C. Several feet of concrete
D. Piece of paper

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Gamma radiation is highly penetrative and requires dense materials to block it effectively. While aluminum foil and glass are not sufficient to stop gamma radiation, several feet of concrete is needed due to its high density and ability to absorb gamma radiation effectively. A piece of paper is too thin and lacks the density required to block gamma radiation, making it an ineffective shield.

5. 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.