the operating principle of a metal detector relies on

HESI A2

HESI A2 Physics

1. The operating principle of a metal detector relies on:

A. The static presence of a permanent magnet
B. The electromotive force induced by a changing magnetic field
C. The high electrical conductivity of most metals
D. The unique thermal signature of metallic objects

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Metal detectors work based on the principle of electromotive force induced by a changing magnetic field. When a metal object comes into contact with the detector's magnetic field, it disrupts the field, inducing a current in the metal that can be detected. This principle allows metal detectors to identify the presence of metallic objects without relying on the static presence of a permanent magnet, the high electrical conductivity of metals, or the thermal signature of the objects. Choice A is incorrect because metal detectors do not rely on a static magnet but on the interaction of metals with a changing magnetic field. Choice C is incorrect because while metals do have high electrical conductivity, this is not the principle underlying metal detectors. Choice D is incorrect because metal detectors do not operate based on the thermal signature of objects, but rather on their interaction with magnetic fields.

2. For a compressible fluid subjected to rapid pressure changes, sound wave propagation becomes important. The speed of sound (c) depends on the fluid's:

A. Density (ρ) only
B. Viscosity (μ) only
C. Density (ρ) and Bulk modulus
D. Density (ρ) and Surface tension (γ)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a compressible fluid, the speed of sound (c) depends on both the fluid's density (ρ) and Bulk modulus. Density affects the compressibility of the fluid, while Bulk modulus represents the fluid's resistance to compression and plays a crucial role in determining the speed of sound in a compressible medium. Viscosity and surface tension do not directly impact the speed of sound in a compressible fluid subjected to rapid pressure changes. Therefore, the correct answer is C.

3. Which of these objects has the greatest momentum?

A. A 1,250-kg car moving at 5 m/s
B. An 80-kg person running at 4 m/s
C. A 10-kg piece of meteorite moving at 600 m/s
D. A o.5-kg rock moving at 40 m/s

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Momentum is the product of mass and velocity. The car has the highest momentum because it has the largest mass and a significant velocity.

4. A 3-volt flashlight uses a bulb with 60-ohm resistance. What current flows through the flashlight?

A. o.05 amp
B. o.5 amp
C. 1.8 amp
D. 18 amp

Correct answer: A

Rationale: : Using Ohm's Law, I = V / R: I = 3 / 60 = 0.05 amp. So, the correct current is 0.05 amp.

5. A common example of a shear-thinning (non-Newtonian) fluid is:

A. Water
B. Ketchup
C. Air
D. Alcohol

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ketchup. Shear-thinning fluids become less viscous under stress. Ketchup is an example of a shear-thinning fluid because its viscosity decreases when it is shaken or squeezed, allowing it to flow more easily. Choice A, Water, is a Newtonian fluid with a constant viscosity regardless of stress. Choice C, Air, is also a Newtonian fluid. Choice D, Alcohol, does not exhibit shear-thinning behavior; it typically has a constant viscosity as well.