HESI A2 Chemistry Practice Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: H⁻. A hydride ion is formed when a hydrogen atom gains an extra electron, resulting in a negatively charged ion. The notation for a hydride ion is H⁻, indicating the presence of a single hydrogen atom with a negative charge. This is the only choice that accurately represents a hydride ion. Explanation of incorrect choices: B: H⁺ - This represents a hydrogen ion with a positive charge, not a hydride ion. C: OH⁻ - This represents a hydroxide ion, not a hydride ion. D: HCl - This is a compound consisting of a hydrogen atom and a chlorine atom, not a hydride ion.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: H⁻. A hydride ion is formed when a hydrogen atom gains an extra electron, resulting in a negatively charged ion. The notation for a hydride ion is H⁻, indicating the presence of a single hydrogen atom with a negative charge. This is the only choice that accurately represents a hydride ion. Explanation of incorrect choices: B: H⁺ - This represents a hydrogen ion with a positive charge, not a hydride ion. C: OH⁻ - This represents a hydroxide ion, not a hydride ion. D: HCl - This is a compound consisting of a hydrogen atom and a chlorine atom, not a hydride ion.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct formula for calcium carbonate is CaCO₃. Calcium carbonate consists of one calcium ion (Ca²⁺) and one carbonate ion (CO₃²⁻). The calcium ion has a 2+ charge while the carbonate ion has a 2- charge, so they combine in a 1:1 ratio to balance the charges. Therefore, the correct formula is CaCO₃. Choice A (CaSO₃) is incorrect because it represents calcium sulfite, not calcium carbonate. Choice C (Ca(OH)₂) is incorrect as it represents calcium hydroxide, not calcium carbonate. Choice D (CH₃OH) is incorrect as it represents methanol, not calcium carbonate.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: column. Elements in the same column of the periodic table, also known as groups, have similar properties due to the same number of valence electrons. This similarity is a result of the elements' electronic configuration, leading to comparable chemical behavior. In contrast, rows (choice A) represent periods, indicating elements with increasing atomic numbers but not necessarily similar properties. Principal energy levels (choice B) are related to the energy levels of electrons in an atom, not the grouping of elements. Choice C, period, refers to elements arranged horizontally on the periodic table, which do not share the same properties as elements in the same column.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale for the correct answer (C): A saturated solution has the maximum concentration of solute dissolved in the solvent. At this point, the rate of dissolution equals the rate of crystallization, achieving a dynamic equilibrium. As a result, adding more solute will not increase its concentration further. Choice A is incorrect because a saturated solution has exactly the right amount of solute dissolved. Choice B is incorrect because a saturated solution is at its maximum solubility. Choice D is incorrect because a precipitate would indicate an unsaturated solution.