which of the following is a characteristic of an exothermic reaction
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Chemistry Questions

1. Which of the following is a characteristic of an exothermic reaction?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An exothermic reaction is characterized by the release of heat. During an exothermic reaction, energy is released in the form of heat to the surroundings, resulting in a temperature increase. This distinguishes it from endothermic reactions, which absorb heat from the surroundings. Choice A is incorrect because exothermic reactions do not absorb heat; instead, they release heat. Choice C is incorrect as exothermic reactions do not remain neutral; they involve a net release of energy. Choice D is incorrect as exothermic reactions do not require energy input; instead, they release energy.

2. What is the main component of air?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Nitrogen is the main component of air, constituting approximately 78% of the Earth's atmosphere. Oxygen, carbon dioxide, and argon are also present in smaller amounts, but nitrogen is the most abundant gas in the air. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Choice A, oxygen, is essential for respiration but makes up only about 21% of the atmosphere. Choice C, carbon dioxide, is vital for photosynthesis but exists in trace amounts in the air. Choice D, argon, is a noble gas found in relatively small quantities in the atmosphere.

3. What happens in a single displacement reaction?

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.

4. What type of chemical reaction involves the combination of two elements to form a product?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A synthesis reaction involves the combination of two or more substances to form a single, more complex product. In the context of chemical reactions, it specifically refers to the combination of two elements to form a compound. Therefore, the correct answer is C. Decomposition reactions involve the breakdown of a single compound into simpler substances (opposite of synthesis). Combustion reactions involve a substance reacting with oxygen to produce heat and light, not the combination of elements. Double replacement reactions involve the exchange of ions between two compounds, leading to the formation of two new compounds, not the combination of two elements.

5. Here are the solubilities of four substances at 0°C, in grams of solute per 100 mL of water. If the temperature increases to 20°C, what would you expect to happen to the solubility figures?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Solubility generally tends to increase with temperature for most solid solutes in liquid solvents due to higher kinetic energy leading to better solute-solvent interactions. As the temperature increases from 0°C to 20°C, all four solubility figures are expected to increase. Choice A is incorrect because solubility tends to increase with temperature. Choice B is incorrect as well for the same reason. Choice D is incorrect because the solubility of solid solutes typically increases with temperature.

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