HESI A2
HESI A2 Physics Practice Test Questions
Question 1 of 5
Fluid dynamics is a subfield of fluid mechanics concerned with:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Fluid dynamics is the study of fluids in motion and their behavior under different conditions, including how they flow, mix, and interact with their surroundings. It focuses on the dynamic aspects of fluids rather than their static properties when at rest, which is the realm of fluid statics. Phase transitions of fluids between liquid, gas, and solid states are more related to thermodynamics than fluid dynamics. While engineering applications involve fluid dynamics, the field itself is more specialized in studying the movement and behavior of fluids.
Question 2 of 5
The Prandtl number (Pr) is a dimensionless property relating:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The Prandtl number (Pr) is a dimensionless number used to characterize fluid flow. It is the ratio of momentum diffusivity to thermal diffusivity. In simpler terms, it relates the ability of a fluid to conduct heat to its ability to conduct momentum. Therefore, the correct relationship is between viscosity and thermal diffusivity, making choice A the correct answer. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not represent the properties that the Prandtl number relates.
Question 3 of 5
In open-channel flow, a critical property is the free surface, which refers to the:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The free surface in open-channel flow refers to the interface between the liquid and the surrounding gas, typically the atmosphere. This interface is critical as it determines the boundary between the liquid flow and the open environment. Option A is incorrect as it refers to the liquid-container wall interface, not the free surface. Option C is incorrect because it represents the bottom of the channel, not the free surface. Option D is incorrect as it describes the region of highest velocity within the liquid, not the free surface. Therefore, the correct choice is B.
Question 4 of 5
Certain non-Newtonian fluids exhibit shear thickening behavior. In this case, the fluid's viscosity:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: When a non-Newtonian fluid exhibits shear thickening behavior, its viscosity increases with increasing shear rate. This means that as more force is applied to the fluid, its resistance to flow also increases, resulting in a higher viscosity. This phenomenon is opposite to shear thinning, where viscosity decreases with increasing shear rate. Therefore, in the case of shear thickening behavior, the correct answer is that the fluid's viscosity increases with increasing shear rate. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because shear thickening behavior specifically involves an increase in viscosity with increasing shear rate, not remaining constant, decreasing, or depending on applied pressure.
Question 5 of 5
When a fluid encounters a bluff body (e.g., a car), the flow can separate behind the object, creating a region of low pressure. This phenomenon is known as:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Boundary layer separation. Boundary layer separation occurs when the flow of fluid detaches from the surface of a bluff body, leading to a low-pressure region behind the object. This separation creates a wake region with reduced pressure. Choice A, Cavitation, refers to the formation of vapor bubbles in a fluid and is not relevant in this context. Choice C, Bernoulli effect per se, does not specifically describe the phenomenon of flow separation behind a bluff body. Choice D, Drag crisis, is not the term used to describe the creation of a low-pressure region due to flow separation.