HESI A2
HESI A2 Physics
1. A closed system undergoes a cyclic process, returning to its initial state. What can be said about the net work done (Wnet) by the system over the entire cycle?
- A. Wnet is always positive.
- B. Wnet is always negative.
- C. Wnet can be positive, negative, or zero.
- D. Wnet is equal to the total heat transferred into the system (dQ ≠ 0 for a cycle).
Correct answer: C
Rationale: For a closed system undergoing a cyclic process and returning to its initial state, the net work done (Wnet) over the entire cycle can be positive, negative, or zero. This is because the work done is determined by the area enclosed by the cycle on a P-V diagram, and this area can be above, below, or intersecting the zero work axis, leading to positive, negative, or zero net work done. Choice A is incorrect because Wnet is not always positive; it depends on the specific path taken on the P-V diagram. Choice B is incorrect as Wnet is not always negative; it varies based on the enclosed area. Choice D is incorrect because Wnet is not necessarily equal to the total heat transferred into the system; it depends on the specifics of the cycle and is not a direct relationship.
2. A solenoid is a long, tightly wound coil of wire that acts like a bar magnet when current flows through it. The magnetic field lines inside a solenoid are most similar to the field lines around:
- A. A single straight current-carrying wire
- B. A horseshoe magnet
- C. A permanent bar magnet
- D. A flat sheet conductor
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The magnetic field lines inside a solenoid resemble the field lines around a permanent bar magnet. Both a solenoid and a bar magnet have north and south poles, resulting in a similar pattern of magnetic field lines. A single straight current-carrying wire produces a different field pattern because it has no coil structure like a solenoid. A horseshoe magnet has a unique field shape due to its pole arrangement, different from the uniform field pattern of a solenoid. A flat sheet conductor does not exhibit the same magnetic field characteristics as a solenoid, as it lacks the coil shape and alignment of a solenoid's magnetic field.
3. Why doesn’t a raindrop accelerate as it approaches the ground?
- A. Gravity pulls it down at a constant rate.
- B. Air resistance counteracts the gravitational force.
- C. Its mass decreases, decreasing its speed.
- D. Objects in motion decelerate over distance.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. As a raindrop falls, it experiences air resistance which counteracts the gravitational force pulling it down. This balancing of forces prevents the raindrop from accelerating further as it approaches the ground. Choice A is incorrect because while gravity is pulling the raindrop down, air resistance opposes this force. Choice C is incorrect as the mass of the raindrop remains constant during its fall. Choice D is incorrect because objects in motion may decelerate due to various factors, but in this case, the focus is on why the raindrop doesn't accelerate.
4. In terms of electrical conductivity, semiconductors fall between
- A. Conductors and insulators
- B. Conductors and superconductors
- C. Insulators and dielectrics
- D. Superconductors and insulators
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Semiconductors have electrical conductivities that lie between those of conductors (high conductivity) and insulators (low conductivity). This positioning makes choice A, 'Conductors and insulators,' the correct answer. Choice B, 'Conductors and superconductors,' is incorrect because superconductors have perfect conductivity, not intermediate like semiconductors. Choice C, 'Insulators and dielectrics,' is incorrect because dielectrics are a type of insulator, so it doesn't show the progression from high to low conductivity. Choice D, 'Superconductors and insulators,' is incorrect because superconductors have the highest conductivity, opposite to the role of semiconductors.
5. Why are boats more buoyant in salt water than in fresh water?
- A. Salt decreases the mass of the boats.
- B. Salt increases the volume of the water.
- C. Salt affects the density of the boats.
- D. Salt increases the density of the water.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Salt increases the density of water, making saltwater more buoyant than freshwater. The higher density of saltwater provides more lift to a boat, enabling it to float more easily compared to in freshwater. Choice A is incorrect because salt does not affect the mass of the boats. Choice B is incorrect as salt does not increase the volume of water. Choice C is incorrect since salt affects the density of water, not the boats themselves. Therefore, the correct answer is that salt increases the density of the water, resulting in boats being more buoyant in salt water than in fresh water.
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