how many electrons are in a neutral atom of neon

HESI A2

Chemistry Hesi A2

1. How many electrons are in a neutral atom of neon?

A. 9
B. 10
C. 11
D. 12

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The atomic number of neon is 10, which represents the number of protons in its nucleus. In a neutral atom, the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons to maintain electrical neutrality. Therefore, a neutral atom of neon contains 10 electrons, matching the 10 protons within the nucleus. Choice A (9 electrons) is incorrect as it doesn't correspond to the atomic number of neon. Choices C (11 electrons) and D (12 electrons) are also incorrect as they do not align with the correct atomic number of neon.

2. What type of reactions take place in the nucleus to achieve stable nuclear configurations?

A. Chemical
B. Nuclear
C. Physical
D. Mechanical

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Nuclear reactions occur within the nucleus to achieve stable nuclear configurations. These reactions involve changes in the composition of atomic nuclei, leading to the formation of more stable elements. Chemical reactions occur in the electron cloud surrounding the nucleus, while physical and mechanical processes do not directly impact the stability of nuclear configurations. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Nuclear.'

3. Which of the following best describes an endothermic reaction?

A. A reaction that absorbs heat
B. A reaction that releases heat
C. A reaction that does not involve heat
D. A reaction that remains at a constant temperature

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An endothermic reaction is a process that absorbs heat from its surroundings. When a reaction absorbs heat, it leads to a decrease in the temperature of the surroundings, making choice A the correct description. In an endothermic reaction, energy is taken in from the surroundings, resulting in a decrease in temperature around the reaction site. Choice B is incorrect because a reaction that releases heat is known as an exothermic reaction. Choice C is incorrect as all reactions involve heat to some extent. Choice D is incorrect as an endothermic reaction does not remain at a constant temperature but rather absorbs heat, leading to a temperature decrease in the surroundings.

4. Which type of change occurs when no change is made to the chemical composition of a substance?

A. Chemical
B. Physical
C. Nuclear
D. Mechanical

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A physical change refers to alterations in the state of matter without modifying the chemical composition of the substance. Examples of physical changes include changes in state (solid, liquid, gas), shape, size, or phase. In a physical change, the substance may look different or behave differently, but its chemical structure remains the same. On the other hand, chemical changes involve the breaking and forming of chemical bonds, resulting in the creation of entirely new substances with different chemical properties. Nuclear changes involve alterations in the nucleus of an atom, such as radioactive decay. Mechanical changes refer to changes in the position or motion of an object caused by applied forces, like pushing, pulling, or twisting.

5. What charge do alpha radiation particles have?

A. -2
B. 0
C. +2
D. +1

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: +2. Alpha radiation particles consist of two protons and two neutrons, giving them a net charge of +2. This positive charge is due to the presence of the two protons in the nucleus of the alpha particle. Choice A (-2) is incorrect as alpha particles have a positive charge. Choice B (0) is incorrect as alpha particles carry a charge. Choice D (+1) is incorrect as alpha particles have a higher positive charge due to the presence of two protons.