which of the following does not exist as a diatomic molecule
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Chemistry Questions

1. Which of the following elements does not exist as a diatomic molecule?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'boron.' Diatomic molecules consist of two atoms of the same element bonded together. Boron is an exception and does not exist naturally as a diatomic molecule. On the other hand, fluorine, oxygen, and nitrogen commonly exist as diatomic molecules in their natural states. Fluorine, for example, exists as F2, oxygen exists as O2, and nitrogen exists as N2.

2. What is the term used when an atom gains one or more electrons?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When an atom gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged and is called an anion. An anion is formed when an atom gains one or more electrons, leading to an excess of negative charge. Choice A, 'Cation,' is incorrect because a cation is formed when an atom loses electrons, resulting in a positively charged ion. Choice C, 'Isotope,' refers to atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons and is not related to gaining electrons. Choice D, 'Electron,' is the particle that an atom gains to become an anion, not the term for the atom itself after gaining electrons.

3. At what temperature does water boil in °F?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Water boils at 212°F under standard atmospheric pressure. This is the point at which water changes from a liquid to a gas phase. Choice A (210°F) is incorrect as it is below the boiling point of water. Choice C (215°F) and Choice D (220°F) are also incorrect as they are above the boiling point of water.

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

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.

5. What are neutral particles called?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Neutral particles, which have no electric charge, are known as neutrons. Neutrons are found in the nucleus of an atom along with protons. Electrons carry a negative charge and orbit the nucleus. Cations are positively charged ions formed by losing electrons. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Neutrons' as they are the neutral particles in an atom, unlike protons, electrons, or cations.

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