HESI A2
Chemistry HESI A2 Quizlet Questions
Question 1 of 5
What term is used to describe the emission of particles from an unstable nucleus?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Radioactivity is the term used to describe the emission of particles from an unstable nucleus. When a nucleus is unstable, it undergoes radioactive decay by emitting particles such as alpha or beta particles. This process releases energy and transforms the unstable nucleus into a more stable configuration. Choice B, 'Radiation,' is a broad term that encompasses various forms of energy emitted from a source; it is not specific to the emission from an unstable nucleus. Choice C, 'Decay,' is closely related but doesn't specifically indicate the emission of particles from an unstable nucleus. Choice D, 'Fusion,' refers to the process of combining nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, not the emission of particles from an unstable nucleus.
Question 2 of 5
What are the three types of radiation?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is Alpha, beta, gamma. Alpha radiation consists of helium nuclei, beta radiation comprises electrons or positrons, and gamma radiation is high-energy electromagnetic radiation. Choice B, delta, is incorrect as delta is not a type of radiation. Choice C, gamma, delta, epsilon, and Choice D, beta, gamma, epsilon, are incorrect as they do not include the three standard types of radiation.
Question 3 of 5
Which type of radiation involves the emission of helium ions?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Alpha radiation involves the emission of helium ions. Helium ions are composed of two protons and two neutrons, which is the same as the nucleus of a helium atom. This type of radiation has low penetration power and can be stopped by a piece of paper or human skin, making it less harmful compared to other forms of radiation like beta or gamma radiation. Beta radiation involves the emission of high-speed electrons, while gamma radiation involves electromagnetic waves with high energy. Delta radiation is not a recognized form of radiation in this context, making it an incorrect choice.
Question 4 of 5
What charge do alpha radiation particles have?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: +2. Alpha radiation particles consist of two protons and two neutrons, giving them a net charge of +2. This positive charge is due to the presence of the two protons in the nucleus of the alpha particle. Choice A (-2) is incorrect as alpha particles have a positive charge. Choice B (0) is incorrect as alpha particles carry a charge. Choice D (+1) is incorrect as alpha particles have a higher positive charge due to the presence of two protons.
Question 5 of 5
What can stop the penetration of alpha particles?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Alpha particles can be stopped by a piece of paper due to their low penetration power. The paper acts as a shield, effectively blocking the alpha particles from passing through. In contrast, materials like aluminum foil, glass, and plastic are not as effective as a simple piece of paper in stopping alpha particles. Aluminum foil is more effective against beta particles, gamma rays, and x-rays due to its higher density. Glass and plastic also provide some protection against beta particles and gamma rays, but they are less effective than a piece of paper against alpha particles.