what type of radiation emits helium ions and can be stopped by a piece of paper

HESI A2

HESI A2 Chemistry Practice Test

1. Which type of radiation emits helium ions and can be stopped by a piece of paper?

A. Beta radiation
B. Alpha radiation
C. Gamma radiation
D. X-ray radiation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Alpha radiation emits helium ions, which are helium nuclei without electrons, making them positively charged. These ions are relatively large and heavy compared to beta and gamma radiation. Due to their size and charge, alpha particles interact strongly with matter and are easily stopped. A piece of paper or even human skin can effectively block alpha radiation. Therefore, alpha radiation is the type of radiation that can be stopped by a piece of paper. Beta radiation consists of fast-moving electrons and can penetrate further into materials than alpha radiation, thus not stopped by a piece of paper. Gamma radiation is highly penetrating and requires dense materials like lead or concrete to block it effectively. X-ray radiation, similar to gamma radiation, is also highly penetrating and cannot be stopped by a piece of paper.

2. What is atomic mass?

A. Number of protons in an atom
B. Sum of protons and neutrons
C. Number of neutrons in an atom
D. Average weight of an element

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Atomic mass, also known as atomic weight, is the sum of the number of protons and neutrons in an atom. It represents the average mass of an atom of an element, taking into account the different isotopes and their relative abundance. Neutrons contribute to the atomic mass alongside protons, while the number of neutrons alone is not the definition of atomic mass. Choice A is incorrect because it refers only to the number of protons, not the complete atomic mass. Choice C is incorrect as it focuses solely on the number of neutrons, excluding the contribution of protons. Choice D is incorrect as it mentions the 'average weight of an element,' which is related to atomic mass but does not encapsulate the specific definition of atomic mass as the sum of protons and neutrons.

3. Which of the following represents a hydride ion?

A. H⁻
B. H⁺
C. OH⁻
D. HCl

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The hydride ion is denoted by H⁻, indicating that it has gained an extra electron to complete its valence shell, resulting in a full octet and a net charge of -1. This ion is commonly found in metal hydrides and plays a significant role in various chemical reactions. Option B, H⁺, represents a proton with a positive charge. Option C, OH⁻, represents the hydroxide ion, consisting of oxygen and hydrogen. Option D, HCl, is a compound composed of hydrogen and chlorine ions, not a hydride ion.

4. Which of the following elements is a noble gas?

A. Hydrogen
B. Fluorine
C. Argon
D. Nitrogen

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Argon. Argon is a noble gas, part of Group 18 in the periodic table. Noble gases are colorless, odorless, and typically non-reactive under normal conditions. Other elements in this group include helium, neon, krypton, xenon, and radon. Argon finds wide applications in welding, lighting, and scientific research. Choices A, B, and D are not noble gases. Hydrogen is a non-metal, Fluorine is a halogen, and Nitrogen is a diatomic non-metal gas.

5. What is the correct name of MgO?

A. Manganese oxide
B. Magnesium oxide
C. Magnesium oxate
D. Magnesium hydroxide

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct name of MgO is Magnesium oxide. Mg represents the chemical symbol for magnesium, and O represents the chemical symbol for oxygen. When these elements combine, they form magnesium oxide. Option A, Manganese oxide, is incorrect as it refers to a compound of manganese and oxygen, not magnesium. Option C, Magnesium oxate, is not a valid chemical compound name. Option D, Magnesium hydroxide, refers to a different compound consisting of magnesium, oxygen, and hydrogen.