which element would you expect to be least reactive

HESI A2

Chemistry HESI A2 Practice Test

1. Which element would you expect to be least reactive?

A. Li
B. Cr
C. Nd
D. Xe

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Xenon (Xe) is a noble gas located in Group 18 of the periodic table. Noble gases are known for their stable and unreactive nature due to having a full outer shell of electrons. Therefore, xenon would be expected to be the least reactive among the given elements. Choice A (Li) is a metal in Group 1 of the periodic table, which tends to be reactive, especially with water. Choice B (Cr) is a transition metal known for its reactivity in some forms. Choice C (Nd) is a rare earth element, which can exhibit varying reactivity depending on the compound or environment.

2. Which compound is a Hydrogen or proton donor, corrosive to metals, causes blue litmus paper to become red, and becomes less acidic when mixed with a base?

A. Base
B. Acid
C. Salt
D. Hydroxide

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Acid.' An acid is a compound that donates protons (H+), is corrosive to metals, and turns blue litmus paper red. When an acid is mixed with a base, they react to form salts and water, resulting in a decrease in acidity. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because bases accept protons rather than donate them, salts are the products of acid-base reactions, and hydroxides are typically bases, not acids.

3. What type of chemical reaction involves the reaction of a compound with oxygen?

A. Decomposition
B. Synthesis
C. Combustion
D. Single replacement

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Combustion. A combustion reaction is characterized by a compound reacting with oxygen. During this process, heat and light are often produced as energy is released in the form of heat. Combustion is a common type of reaction involving organic compounds, like hydrocarbons, reacting with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because decomposition involves a compound breaking down into simpler substances, synthesis involves the combination of two or more substances to form a more complex one, and single replacement involves an element replacing another element in a compound.

4. Which chemical reaction involves the formation of a single product from two or more reactants?

A. Synthesis reaction
B. Combustion reaction
C. Decomposition reaction
D. Double displacement reaction

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A synthesis reaction involves the combination of two or more reactants to form a single product. This type of reaction is characterized by the merging of substances to create a more complex compound. In a synthesis reaction, the reactants bond together to form a new product, making it the correct choice for this scenario. Combustion reactions involve the rapid combination of oxygen with another substance, resulting in the release of energy in the form of heat and light. Decomposition reactions entail the breakdown of a compound into simpler substances, often through the application of heat or electricity. Double displacement reactions involve the exchange of ions between two compounds, leading to the formation of two new compounds.

5. 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.