what is the mass number of an element

ATI TEAS 7

Mometrix TEAS 7 science practice test

1. What is the mass number of an element?

A. The number of protons in an atom's nucleus.
B. The number of neutrons in an atom's nucleus.
C. The number of electrons in an atom's valence shell.
D. The number of isotopes of an element.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The mass number of an element represents the total number of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus. It specifically focuses on the number of neutrons in an atom's nucleus, which contributes to the overall mass of the atom. Therefore, the mass number is not solely determined by the number of protons, electrons, or isotopes. Choice A is incorrect because it refers to the atomic number, which is the number of protons in an atom's nucleus. Choice C is incorrect as the number of electrons in the valence shell is related to the atom's reactivity and bonding behavior, not the mass number. Choice D is incorrect because the mass number does not represent the number of isotopes of an element, but rather the sum of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus. Thus, option B, the number of neutrons in an atom's nucleus, is the correct choice.

2. What happens to the internal energy of a system when it performs work on its surroundings?

A. It increases.
B. It decreases.
C. It remains the same.
D. Insufficient information.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a system performs work on its surroundings, it loses energy in the form of work done. This results in a decrease in the internal energy of the system. Work done by the system is considered as negative work, leading to a decrease in internal energy. Therefore, the correct answer is that the internal energy decreases when a system performs work on its surroundings. Choice A is incorrect as the internal energy decreases, not increases. Choice C is incorrect because the internal energy changes due to the work done. Choice D is incorrect because the information provided is sufficient to determine the change in internal energy.

3. Which statement is true regarding the process of digestion?

A. Digestion of starch begins in the mouth.
B. Amylase is produced by the stomach to help break down food in the upper intestine.
C. The di- and tri-saccharides produced in early digestion are absorbed through the intestinal wall.
D. Proteases are responsible for breaking down starches.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The statement 'Digestion of starch begins in the mouth' is correct. Salivary amylase, an enzyme produced in the salivary glands, initiates the breakdown of starch into simpler sugars like maltose in the mouth before further digestion in the stomach. This initial breakdown of starch is crucial in the digestion of carbohydrates, marking the beginning of the digestive process. Choice B is incorrect because amylase is produced in the salivary glands, not the stomach. Choice C is incorrect because di- and tri-saccharides are further broken down into monosaccharides before absorption. Choice D is incorrect because proteases are enzymes that break down proteins, not starches.

4. In nuclear fusion, where does the released energy originate from?

A. The fission of heavy nuclei
B. The binding energy released during the fusion of light nuclei
C. Electronic transitions within atoms
D. Matter-antimatter annihilation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'The binding energy released during the fusion of light nuclei.' Nuclear fusion involves the combination of light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy in the process. This energy arises from the binding energy that keeps the nucleus intact. As lighter nuclei fuse, they create a more stable nucleus, and the excess energy is emitted as radiation. This fundamental process is the primary source of energy in stars and holds promise as a potential future energy source on Earth. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A, 'The fission of heavy nuclei,' is related to nuclear fission, not fusion. Choice C, 'Electronic transitions within atoms,' refers to energy release in atomic transitions, not nuclear fusion. Choice D, 'Matter-antimatter annihilation,' is a process where matter and antimatter collide, converting their mass into energy, but it is not the energy source for nuclear fusion.

5. How many electrons are typically found in each shell of a neutral aluminum atom with 13 electrons in its electron cloud?

A. 6 in the first shell, 7 in the second shell
B. 2 in the first shell, 11 in the second shell
C. 2 in the first shell, 8 in the second shell, 3 in the third shell
D. 3 in the first shell, 5 in the second shell, 5 in the third shell

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a neutral aluminum atom with 13 electrons, the electron distribution typically follows the electron shell filling order based on the Aufbau principle. The first shell can hold a maximum of 2 electrons, the second shell can hold up to 8 electrons, and the third shell can hold up to 8 electrons as well. Therefore, the distribution would be 2 electrons in the first shell, 8 electrons in the second shell, and 3 electrons in the third shell, totaling 13 electrons. Choice A is incorrect as it exceeds the maximum number of electrons the shells can hold. Choice B is incorrect as it does not distribute the electrons correctly among the shells. Choice D is incorrect as it also does not distribute the electrons correctly among the shells.