HESI A2 Study Guide: Comprehensive Prep for Your Nursing Exam

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Buffers are solutions that resist changes in pH by neutralizing small amounts of acids or bases that may be added to them. They help maintain a stable pH environment and are commonly used in various biological and chemical processes to prevent drastic changes in acidity or alkalinity. Buffers do not act as catalysts or inhibitors in reactions. Their main purpose is to stabilize pH levels and ensure a relatively constant pH within a system, making them essential in maintaining the proper conditions for many biological reactions and processes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct name for aqueous HI is hydroiodic acid. In the naming of binary acids, the prefix 'hydro-' is combined with the root of the nonmetal element and the suffix '-ic acid'. Therefore, the correct systematic name for HI in aqueous solution is hydroiodic acid.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the periodic table, the horizontal rows are called 'periods.' These periods represent the number of electron shells an element has. Each period starts a new energy level, indicating the elements' properties and atomic structure. 'Groups' refer to the vertical columns of the periodic table, each containing elements with similar chemical properties. 'Families' can also be used interchangeably with groups. 'Sets' is a vague term and not specifically related to the layout of the periodic table. Understanding the distinction between 'periods' and 'groups' is crucial in comprehending the organization and properties of elements in the periodic table.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D - High specific heat. Water's ability to make hydrogen bonds leads to a high specific heat capacity, which allows it to absorb and release large amounts of heat with minimal temperature change. This property is crucial for maintaining stable temperatures in living organisms and aquatic environments. High specific heat helps regulate body temperature in organisms and prevents sudden temperature fluctuations in water bodies, providing an essential benefit for various biological processes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Bases or alkaline solutions are substances that can accept protons (H+ ions), making them hydrogen acceptors. When a base reacts with an acid, it accepts a proton to form water, hence neutralizing the acid. This property distinguishes bases from acids, which donate protons (H+ ions). Therefore, the correct answer is that bases or alkaline solutions are known as hydrogen acceptors.