when a small object floats on the surface of a liquid the surface tension creates a

HESI A2

HESI A2 Physics Quizlet

1. When a small object floats on the surface of a liquid, the surface tension creates a:

A. Buoyant force acting upwards
B. Pressure difference causing sinking
C. Drag force opposing motion
D. Restoring force towards equilibrium

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Surface tension creates a restoring force that holds the object on the surface. The liquid's surface behaves like a stretched membrane, and when disturbed, it tends to return the object to its original position, creating a restoring force. The other choices are incorrect: A buoyant force acts on objects submerged in a fluid, not floating on the surface; pressure differences usually affect sinking objects, not floating ones; drag force is a resistance force that opposes motion, not related to surface tension.

2. The specific heat capacity (c) of a material is the amount of heat transfer (Q) required to raise the temperature (ΔT) of a unit mass (m) of the material by one degree (typically Celsius). The relationship between these quantities is described by the equation:

A. Q = cΔT
B. Q = mcΔT
C. Q = c / mΔT
D. Q = ΔT / mc

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct equation relating heat transfer (Q), mass (m), specific heat capacity (c), and change in temperature (ΔT) is Q = mcΔT. This equation states that the heat transfer is equal to the product of the mass, specific heat capacity, and temperature change. Therefore, the correct answer is B, as it correctly represents this relationship. Choices C and D do not correctly represent the relationship between these quantities and are therefore incorrect.

3. If a force of 12 kg stretches a spring by 3 cm, how far will the spring stretch when a force of 30 kg is applied?

A. 6 cm
B. 7.5 cm
C. 9 cm
D. 10.5 cm

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The extension of a spring is directly proportional to the force applied. In this case, the force increases from 12 kg to 30 kg, which is a 2.5 times increase. Therefore, the extension of the spring will also increase by 2.5 times. Given that the spring stretches 3 cm with a force of 12 kg, multiplying 3 cm by 2.5 gives us the extension of the spring when a force of 30 kg is applied, which equals 7.5 cm. Therefore, the correct answer is 7.5 cm. Choice A, 6 cm, is incorrect because it does not account for the proportional increase in force. Choice C, 9 cm, and Choice D, 10.5 cm, are incorrect as they overestimate the extension of the spring by not considering the direct proportionality between force and extension.

4. Viscosity, μ, is a transport property of a fluid that reflects its:

A. Inertia
B. Resistance to flow
C. Compressibility
D. Buoyancy generation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Viscosity refers to a fluid's resistance to flow. A fluid with high viscosity (like honey) flows slowly, while a fluid with low viscosity (like water) flows more easily. It is a measure of internal friction in the fluid. Choice A, 'Inertia,' is incorrect as inertia is the tendency of an object to resist changes in its state of motion. Choice C, 'Compressibility,' is incorrect as it refers to the ability of a fluid to be compressed. Choice D, 'Buoyancy generation,' is incorrect as it relates to the upward force exerted by a fluid that opposes the weight of an immersed object.

5. What is the purpose of a switch in a circuit?

A. To reverse the direction of alternating current
B. To increase the voltage of the battery or cell
C. To increase the resistance of wires in the circuit
D. To allow the circuit to open and close

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The purpose of a switch in a circuit is to allow the circuit to open and close. When the switch is turned on, it provides a complete path for the current to flow through the circuit. When the switch is turned off, it breaks the circuit, stopping the flow of current. This function of opening and closing the circuit using a switch is essential for controlling the flow of electricity in various electrical devices and systems. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because a switch does not reverse the direction of current, increase voltage, or increase resistance in a circuit; its primary function is to open and close the circuit.