how many neutrons are in an atom of helium 4
Logo

Nursing Elites

HESI A2

HESI A2 Chemistry Practice Questions

1. How many neutrons are in an atom of helium-4?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The atomic number of helium is 2, indicating it has 2 protons. Helium-4, the most common isotope of helium, has 2 neutrons in addition to its 2 protons. Therefore, the correct answer is 2 neutrons in an atom of helium-4. Choice B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not match the correct composition of helium-4, which consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons.

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

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.

3. A radioactive isotope has a half-life of 20 years. How many grams of a 6-gram sample will remain after 40 years?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The half-life of a radioactive isotope is the time it takes for half of the original sample to decay. After each half-life period, half of the initial sample remains. In this case, after the first 20 years, half of the 6-gram sample (3 grams) will remain. After another 20 years (total of 40 years), half of the remaining 3 grams will remain, which is 1.5 grams. Therefore, 3 grams will be left after 40 years. Choice A is incorrect as it doesn't consider the concept of half-life and incorrectly suggests an increase in the sample. Choice B is incorrect as it assumes no decay over time. Choice D is incorrect as it miscalculates the remaining amount after two half-life periods.

4. What determines polarity in a molecule?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Polarity in a molecule is determined by the difference in electronegativity between the atoms forming the bond. The greater the difference in electronegativity, the more polar the bond and molecule become. This difference leads to an uneven distribution of electron density within the bond, creating partial positive and negative charges on the atoms involved. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Bond length and strength do not determine polarity, and molecular weight is not directly related to the polarity of a molecule.

5. 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.

Similar Questions

Which elements are typically involved in hydrogen bonding?
Which material has the smallest specific heat capacity?
Which classification best describes B, Si, As, Te, At, Ge, and Sb that form a staircase pattern on the right side of the periodic table?
What is the net charge of an ionic compound?
Which substance is a product of photosynthesis?

Access More Features

HESI A2 Basic
$99/ 30 days

  • 3,000 Questions with answers
  • 30 days access

HESI A2 Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • Actual HESI A2 Questions
  • 3,000 questions with answers
  • 90 days access

Other Courses