HESI A2 Version 1 Chemistry

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, limiting reactant. In a chemical reaction, the limiting reactant is the substance that is entirely consumed when the reaction reaches completion. It determines the maximum amount of product that can be formed. The reducing agent (choice B) is a substance that donates electrons to another chemical species, the reaction intermediate (choice C) is a molecule formed and consumed in different steps of the reaction, and a reagent (choice D) is a general term for any substance participating in a chemical reaction.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is a mass spectrometer. A mass spectrometer is a device specifically designed to separate gaseous ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio. The separation occurs as ions pass through the mass spectrometer, allowing for the identification and quantification of compounds present in a sample. This analytical instrument is widely used in chemistry and other scientific fields due to its ability to provide detailed information about the composition of substances.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A redox reaction, also known as a reduction-oxidation reaction, involves the transfer of electrons from one substance to another. During this process, one substance is oxidized (loses electrons) while another is reduced (gains electrons). This transfer of electrons is a key characteristic of redox reactions, making choice C the correct answer. Combustion reaction (choice A) involves a substance reacting with oxygen to produce heat and light, but it does not necessarily involve electron transfer. Synthesis reaction (choice B) involves the combination of two or more substances to form a new compound, without necessarily involving electron transfer. Double-displacement reaction (choice D) involves the exchange of ions between two compounds, but not the transfer of electrons from one atom to another.

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.