Nursing Elites

1. How many neutrons are in an atom of the following element with a mass number of 50?

• A. 38
• B. 88
• C. 50
• D. 126

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Neutrons are found in the nucleus of an atom along with protons. To determine the number of neutrons in an atom, subtract the atomic number (number of protons) from the mass number. In this case, the mass number given is 50. Since the atomic number is not specified, we can infer it from the choices provided. The mass number of an element represents the total sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus. Therefore, the number of neutrons in this atom would also be 50, as the mass number is equivalent to the combined number of protons and neutrons, making choice C the correct answer. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not match the given mass number of 50.

2. Which term in physics describes the resistance of an object to changes in its motion?

• A. Inertia
• B. Momentum
• C. Gravity
• D. Kinetic energy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Inertia is the term that describes the resistance of an object to changes in its motion. This property is explained by Newton's First Law of Motion, which states that objects tend to maintain their state of motion unless acted upon by an external force. Inertia is closely related to mass, where objects with more mass exhibit more resistance to changes in motion. Momentum (B) is the product of an object's mass and velocity, gravity (C) is the force of attraction between objects, and kinetic energy (D) is the energy associated with an object's motion. Therefore, the correct answer is A because inertia specifically addresses the resistance of an object to changes in its motion.

3. Which force opposes the relative motion between surfaces in contact?

• A. Tension force
• B. Frictional force
• C. Gravitational force
• D. Magnetic force

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Frictional force. Frictional force opposes the relative motion between surfaces in contact. When two surfaces are in contact and one tries to slide over the other, the frictional force resists this motion, making it harder for the surfaces to move relative to each other. Choice A, tension force, is incorrect because tension force is a force transmitted through a string, rope, cable, or wire when it is pulled tight by forces acting from opposite ends. Choice C, gravitational force, is incorrect as it is the force of attraction between two masses. Choice D, magnetic force, is incorrect as it is the force exerted between magnetic objects.

4. What is the term for the process of breaking a large molecule into smaller fragments by applying heat?

• A. Polymerization
• B. Hydrogenation
• C. Isomerization
• D. Pyrolysis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Pyrolysis is the correct answer. It is the process of breaking down large molecules into smaller fragments by applying heat in the absence of oxygen. This results in the decomposition of molecules into simpler compounds. Polymerization, the process of synthesizing large molecules from smaller units, is incorrect as it is the opposite process. Hydrogenation involves adding hydrogen atoms to a compound, usually with a catalyst, which is not related to breaking down large molecules. Isomerization refers to rearranging atoms within a molecule to form isomeric compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements, which is also unrelated to the process described in the question.

5. How does the stability of an atom's nucleus influence its radioactive decay?

• A. Stable nuclei never undergo radioactive decay.
• B. Unstable nuclei are more likely to decay through various processes.
• C. Decay releases energy, making stable nuclei more prone to it.
• D. The element's position on the periodic table determines its decay rate.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Unstable nuclei are more likely to decay through various processes. The stability of an atom's nucleus is a crucial factor in determining whether it will undergo radioactive decay. Unstable nuclei have an excess of either protons or neutrons, causing an imbalance in the nucleus. To achieve a more stable configuration, these nuclei will undergo radioactive decay by emitting particles or energy. On the contrary, stable nuclei are less likely to undergo radioactive decay as they possess a balanced number of protons and neutrons. Choice A is incorrect because stable nuclei can still undergo radioactive decay, albeit less frequently. Choice C is incorrect as decay does not make stable nuclei more prone to it; rather, it stabilizes them. Choice D is incorrect because an element's decay rate is primarily determined by the nucleus's stability, not its position on the periodic table.

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