HESI A2 Chemistry

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct formula for potassium chloride is KCl. "K" represents potassium and "Cl" represents chloride. Potassium is a metal with a +1 charge, while chloride is a non-metal with a -1 charge. When these two ions combine, they form a neutral compound with a 1:1 ratio, resulting in the formula KCl. Choice A (NaCl) is incorrect because "Na" represents sodium, not potassium. Choice C (KCl) is also incorrect because it is the same as the correct answer. Choice D (ClK) is incorrect as the order of elements in a chemical formula matters, and in this case, it should be KCl to represent potassium chloride accurately.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: ionization energy. Ionization energy is the energy needed to remove an electron from an atom. The outermost electron requires the least amount of energy to remove as it is farthest from the nucleus. This process results in the formation of a positively charged ion. Explanation: 1. Covalent bonding (A) refers to the sharing of electrons between atoms, not the energy required to remove an electron. 2. Electronegativity (B) is the ability of an atom to attract electrons in a chemical bond, not the energy needed to remove an electron. 3. Atomic radius (C) is the size of an atom, which does not directly relate to the energy required to remove an electron.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: black. Red and white phosphorus are well-known allotropes. Black phosphorus is another important allotrope with a layered structure. It is stable at room temperature and has unique electronic properties. Green, gray, and silver are not commonly recognized allotropic forms of phosphorus, making them incorrect choices.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B (-1) because in NaOH, Na is a group 1 metal with an oxidation state of +1, and H is typically +1. Since the compound is neutral, the oxidation state of oxygen must be -1 to balance the charges. Choice A (-2) is incorrect because oxygen rarely has an oxidation state of -2 in compounds. Choice C (0) is incorrect as oxygen is not in its elemental form. Choice D (+2) is incorrect as it is not a common oxidation state for oxygen in compounds.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, pink. Phenolphthalein is colorless in acidic solutions and turns pink in the presence of a base due to a shift in pH causing a structural change. This color change is a result of the molecule's ability to act as a pH indicator, making it ideal for titrations. Choice A, clear, is incorrect as phenolphthalein is not colorless in the presence of an acid. Choice B, blue, is incorrect as phenolphthalein does not turn blue in any pH range. Choice D, red, is incorrect as phenolphthalein turns pink, not red, in the presence of a base.