surface tension is a property of fluids arising from

HESI A2

HESI A2 Physics

1. Surface tension, γ, is a property of fluids arising from:

A. Intermolecular forces between fluid molecules
B. Gravitational attraction
C. Viscous dissipation
D. Pressure differentials within the fluid

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Surface tension, represented by symbol γ, is caused by the cohesive forces between molecules in a liquid. These intermolecular forces, such as Van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonding, and dipole-dipole interactions, create a 'skin' at the surface of the liquid, giving rise to the property of surface tension. Gravitational attraction, viscous dissipation, and pressure differentials within the fluid do not directly contribute to surface tension. Therefore, the correct answer is A.

2. What is the purpose of a switch in a circuit?

A. To reverse the direction of alternating current
B. To increase the voltage of the battery or cell
C. To increase the resistance of wires in the circuit
D. To allow the circuit to open and close

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The purpose of a switch in a circuit is to allow the circuit to open and close. When the switch is turned on, it provides a complete path for the current to flow through the circuit. When the switch is turned off, it breaks the circuit, stopping the flow of current. This function of opening and closing the circuit using a switch is essential for controlling the flow of electricity in various electrical devices and systems. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because a switch does not reverse the direction of current, increase voltage, or increase resistance in a circuit; its primary function is to open and close the circuit.

3. Fluids can be categorized based on their shear stress-strain rate relationship. An ideal fluid exhibits:

A. Zero shear stress at any strain rate
B. Linear relationship between shear stress and strain rate (Newtonian)
C. Non-linear relationship between shear stress and strain rate (Non-Newtonian)
D. High dependence of viscosity on temperature

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An ideal fluid, often referred to as an inviscid fluid, is a theoretical concept used in fluid mechanics to simplify calculations. It is characterized by having zero shear stress at any strain rate. In reality, such fluids do not exist, but they serve as a useful starting point for understanding fluid behavior in idealized situations. Choice B is incorrect because a linear relationship between shear stress and strain rate defines a Newtonian fluid, not an ideal fluid. Choice C is incorrect because a non-linear relationship between shear stress and strain rate characterizes Non-Newtonian fluids, not ideal fluids. Choice D is incorrect because the high dependence of viscosity on temperature is a characteristic seen in real fluids and does not define an ideal fluid.

4. When a dielectric material is inserted between the plates of a charged capacitor, what will happen to the capacitance?

A. Increase
B. Decrease
C. Remain the same
D. Become unpredictable

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a dielectric material is inserted between the plates of a charged capacitor, the capacitance will increase. This is because the presence of a dielectric material reduces the electric field between the plates, allowing more charge to be stored for a given voltage, thus increasing the capacitance. Choice B is incorrect because adding a dielectric material increases capacitance. Choice C is incorrect because capacitance changes when a dielectric is added. Choice D is incorrect because the effect of a dielectric on capacitance is predictable.

5. The specific heat capacity (c) of a material is the amount of heat transfer (Q) required to raise the temperature (ΔT) of a unit mass (m) of the material by one degree (typically Celsius). The relationship between these quantities is described by the equation:

A. Q = cΔT
B. Q = mcΔT
C. Q = c / mΔT
D. Q = ΔT / mc

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct equation relating heat transfer (Q), mass (m), specific heat capacity (c), and change in temperature (ΔT) is Q = mcΔT. This equation states that the heat transfer is equal to the product of the mass, specific heat capacity, and temperature change. Therefore, the correct answer is B, as it correctly represents this relationship. Choices C and D do not correctly represent the relationship between these quantities and are therefore incorrect.