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 atomic mass?

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.

3. Which type of radiation emits helium ions and can be stopped by a piece of paper?

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.

4. Which element is considered a noble gas?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Neon.' Noble gases are a group of elements with very low reactivity. Neon is one of these elements, known for its stable and unreactive nature. Oxygen, hydrogen, and argon do not belong to the noble gas group. Oxygen is a reactive non-metal, hydrogen is a non-metal and the first element in the periodic table, and argon is a noble gas like neon but not the correct answer in this case.

5. What is the correct electron configuration for lithium?

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.

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