Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Group IIA elements belong to the alkaline earth metals group in the periodic table. These elements typically have a charge of +2 because they readily lose two electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration. Therefore, the correct answer is B - +2. Choice A (1) is incorrect because Group IIA elements lose two electrons, not one. Choice C (-3) is incorrect because Group IIA elements do not gain electrons to have a negative charge. Choice D (0) is incorrect because Group IIA elements do lose electrons and have a positive charge, not a neutral charge.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A synthesis reaction involves the combination of two or more substances to form a single, more complex product. In the context of chemical reactions, it specifically refers to the combination of two elements to form a compound. Therefore, the correct answer is C. Decomposition reactions involve the breakdown of a single compound into simpler substances (opposite of synthesis). Combustion reactions involve a substance reacting with oxygen to produce heat and light, not the combination of elements. Double replacement reactions involve the exchange of ions between two compounds, leading to the formation of two new compounds, not the combination of two elements.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Stoichiometry is the branch of chemistry that deals with the quantitative relationships between reactants and products in chemical reactions. It focuses on the calculation of the amounts of substances consumed and produced in a reaction based on the balanced chemical equation. Choice A is incorrect because the study of energy changes in chemical reactions falls under thermodynamics. Choice C is incorrect as atomic structure is related to the arrangement of atoms within molecules. Choice D is incorrect as molecular geometry deals with the spatial arrangement of atoms within molecules.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Dispersion forces, also known as London dispersion forces, are the weakest intermolecular forces that occur in non-polar covalent compounds. These forces result from temporary shifts in electron density within molecules, creating temporary dipoles. As a result, non-polar molecules, which lack a permanent dipole moment, can experience these dispersion forces. Polar compounds exhibit stronger intermolecular forces such as dipole-dipole interactions or hydrogen bonding, while ionic compounds involve electrostatic interactions between ions. Therefore, the correct answer is non-polar (choice B). Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because dispersion forces are typically found in non-polar covalent compounds, not polar, ionic, or hydrogen-bonded compounds.

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.