HESI A2
HESI A2 Chemistry Practice Questions
1. Which substance forms hydroxide ions when placed in water?
- A. Lemon juice
- B. Battery acid
- C. Vinegar
- D. Lye
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, lye. Lye, also known as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), is a strong base that forms hydroxide ions (OH-) when placed in water. When lye dissolves in water, it dissociates into sodium ions (Na+) and hydroxide ions, making it an alkaline substance. Lemon juice, battery acid, and vinegar do not form hydroxide ions when placed in water. Lemon juice contains citric acid, battery acid contains sulfuric acid, and vinegar contains acetic acid, none of which produce hydroxide ions when dissolved in water.
2. At what temperature does water boil in °F?
- A. 210°F
- B. 212°F
- C. 215°F
- D. 220°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.
3. Which substance has a pH value greater than 7?
- A. Water
- B. Vinegar
- C. Lemon juice
- D. Baking soda
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, Baking soda. Baking soda has a pH greater than 7, making it basic. pH values above 7 indicate alkalinity, and baking soda, being a base, has a pH higher than 7. Water, vinegar, and lemon juice have pH values below 7, indicating acidity. Water is neutral with a pH of 7, while vinegar and lemon juice are acidic with pH values lower than 7.
4. What is the oxidation state of the chlorine atom in the compound HCl?
- A. +1
- B. -1
- C. +2
- D. -2
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In the compound HCl (hydrochloric acid), the hydrogen atom has an oxidation state of +1 based on the rules of assigning oxidation states. Since the overall compound is neutral, the oxidation state of chlorine must be -1 to balance the charge. Chlorine typically has an oxidation state of -1 in binary compounds with nonmetals, such as HCl. Therefore, the correct answer is -1. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as the oxidation state of chlorine in HCl is -1, not +1, +2, or -2.
5. Which of these represents a strong acid?
- A. CH₃COOH
- B. H₂SO₄
- C. NH₃
- D. KOH
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Among the options provided, H₂SO₄ (sulfuric acid) represents a strong acid. Strong acids completely ionize in water to produce a high concentration of H+ ions. Sulfuric acid is a strong acid known for its ability to dissociate almost completely in water, making it a strong acid. Choice A, CH₃COOH (acetic acid), is a weak acid that only partially dissociates in water. Choices C and D, NH₃ (ammonia) and KOH (potassium hydroxide), are bases and not acids.
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