HESI A2 Chemistry

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Between 6 and 8. Tap water is typically slightly alkaline, with a pH range between 6.5 and 8.5. This is considered neutral to slightly basic, as pure water has a pH of 7. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because tap water is not highly acidic (A), acidic (B), or highly alkaline (D). Tap water falls within the slightly basic range on the pH scale.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Decomposition. In this reaction, a single reactant (AB) breaks down into two or more products (A and B). This aligns with the definition of a decomposition reaction, where a compound is broken down into simpler substances. Choice A (Synthesis) involves combining two or more substances to form a more complex product, which is not the case here. Choices C (Single replacement) and D (Double replacement) involve the exchange of ions or elements between compounds, which is not happening in the given reaction. Thus, based on the breakdown of reactants and products, the correct classification of the reaction is decomposition.

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: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 19 protons. Potassium's atomic number is 19, which represents the number of protons in its nucleus. Protons are positively charged particles in an atom. Option A (18) is incorrect as it does not match the atomic number of Potassium. Options C (20) and D (21) are also incorrect as they do not correspond to Potassium's atomic number. Thus, the correct answer is B (19) based on the periodic table.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: London dispersion force. This is because London dispersion forces are the weakest intermolecular force, resulting in lower boiling points compared to the other options. London dispersion forces are temporary, induced forces caused by momentary fluctuations in electron distribution within molecules. Dipole-dipole interactions (A), Keesom interactions (C), and hydrogen bonding (D) are stronger intermolecular forces that require specific molecular properties such as permanent dipoles or hydrogen bonding, leading to higher boiling points. Therefore, London dispersion forces would result in the lowest boiling point among the options provided.