P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

GCE O-Level 2013

5072 Pure Chemistry Answers
Paper 1
Question Answer Remarks
1 D
2 D *TYS answer is C. NH3 diffuses faster than HCl.
3 D
4 A
5 B
6 C Reactivity of a metal is not related to its melting/boiling point.
7 A
8 C
9 B Overall equation is 2 NaCl  2 Na + Cl2
10 A

11 B
12 D Water molecules undergo self-ionisation: H2O  H+ + OH−
13 A
14 B
15 D
16 A
17 D
18 C
19 B
20 D

21 A
22 B
23 D
24 B
25 B
26 A
27 C
28 D Br− ions present in electrolyte all the time; not formed at anode.
29 C
30 C *TYS answer is B.

31 A Lead and silver halides are insoluble.

32 C
33 C Prepare H2 is small-scale; manufacture H2 is large-scale.
34 B
35 D
36 B *TYS answer is B. Only 3 possible isomers: but-1-ene, but-2-ene
and methylpropene.
37 A
38 B
39 D
40 C

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

Paper 2
A1 (a) A [1]
(b) D [1]
(c) E (C is not the answer because carbon monoxide is a neutral oxide, not acidic.) [1]
(d) B [1]
(e) B and C [1]
(f) High carbon steel is stronger but more brittle than low carbon steel / [2]
Low carbon steel is more malleable but weaker than high carbon steel.

A2 (a) [2]
Correct number of electrons shared [1]
Rest of the electrons correct [1]
S S

(b) True; False; False; False All correct [2]; 3 or 2 correct [1] [2]
(c) [2]
XX 2+ 2-

[ ] [ ]
XX
XX

XX
Mg S
XX
Magnesium ion Sulfide ion

A3 (a) As the reaction progresses, more sulfur is formed. [1]

Sulfur is insoluble /a precipitate/ a solid. [1]
Reject: listing of all the products without identification of sulfur as responsible for
obscuring the cross.
Note: In questions that demand a choice or an identification of one of several possible
reasons, ensure that answer is unambiguous.
(b) (i) Higher the concentration, faster the speed of reaction; [1]
More particles per unit volume/ particles are closer together; [1]
Leading to more collisions per unit time / increased frequency of (effective) collisions; [1]
(ii) 0.6 mol/dm3 [1]
(c) (i) Carry out another experiment using 1.0 mol/dm3 Na2S2O3 (or any other experiment in [1]
part b) with chromium(III) oxide added as catalyst;
keeping all other variables such as concentration and volume of other reactant constant; [1]
If he is right, time taken until cross cannot be seen will be less than 8s.
[1]
(ii) Catalysts provide an alternative reaction pathway/mechanism that has a lower activation [1]
energy or
Catalysts help to orientate the reactant particles for an effective collision to occur.

A4 (a) The (aqueous) iodine formed was brown. [1]

(b) K2SO4 [1]
Potassium sulfate [1]
(c) (i) Iron: +3 in reactants; +2 in products [1]
Iodine: −1 in reactants; 0 in products [1]
(ii) Iron is reduced. Fe3+ gained an electron to become Fe2+. [1]
(d) NaOH + iron (II) sulfate: dirty green precipitate [1]
NaOH + iron (III) sulfate: reddish brown precipitate [1]
(e) Use litmus / a pH meter. If blue litmus turns red / pH is below 7, then it is acidic. [1]
A5 (a) O2, H2O (both correct to score) [1]

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
(b) Waste products from petrol engines may contain carbon monoxide; [1]
which blocks oxygen uptake in blood / prevents haemoglobin from carrying oxygen / [1]
reduces number of oxygen carriers in blood. NOT: causes breathing difficulties / toxic
Water is the only product from fuel cells, which has no adverse effect on human health. [1]
(c) [2]

Correct formulae of products [1]

Single-direction upward arrow
labelled ∆H [1]

(d) The production of hydrogen gas through cracking at high temperatures may produce [2]
hidden gaseous emissions that are harmful to the environment.

A6 (a) (i) Check the melting point of pure aspirin; [1]

If sample contains impurities, it would melt over a range of temperatures / A pure sample [1]
would have a fixed melting point. Reject: variable melting point
(ii) The impurities are leftover salicyclic acid; [1]
and another unknown impurity. [1]
(b) A weak acid is one which undergoes only partial ionisation when dissolved in water, [1]
producing little H+ ions.
(c) .
Number of moles of NaOH used = 0.10 × = 0.00167 mol
[1]
Number of moles of aspirin = 0.00167 mol (1 : 1 ratio)
Mass of aspirin = 0.00167 × 180
[1]
= 0.300g (3sf)
[1]
= 300 mg
Yes, the student’s results agree with this value.
Note: Proof must be completed by converting 0.3g to 300mg.
(d) As sodium hydroxide also reacts with citric acid, the volume of sodium hydroxide needed [1]
for titration is more than expected.
Thus the mass of aspirin calculated is more than the actual mass of aspirin present. [1]

B7 (a) Across Period 3, the ratio of each element to chlorine increases from Na to Si, then [1]
decreases.
For examples, the ratio is 1:1 for Na:Cl, increases to 1:4 for Si:Cl, then decreases to 1:1 [1]
for S:Cl.
(b) (i) SiCl4 [1]
(ii) PCl3 + 3 H2O  H3PO3 + 3 HCl [1]
(c) Chlorine is oxidised because its oxidation state increases from 0 in Cl2 to +1 in HClO; [1]
chlorine is reduced because its oxidation state decreases from 0 in Cl2 to −1 in HCl. [1]
(d) The information supports the idea of student 2 but not that of student 1. [1]
Both MgCl2 and AlCl3 are metal chlorides but AlCl3 hydrolyses in water and MgCl2 does [1]
not.
Ionic chlorides NaCl and MgCl2 dissolves in water while all other chlorides, which are [1]
covalent, hydrolyse.
(e) Hydrolysis of a chloride will produce HCl. [1]
Thus a pH of less than 7 shows hydrolysis has taken place. [1]
(f) Argon is inert/unreactive, hence does not form chlorides. Reject: noble gas [1]

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
B8 (a) Experiment 1 Anode: 4OH− (aq)  2H2O (l) + O2 (g) + 4e [3]
Cathode: Ag+ (aq) + e  Ag (s)
Equations [1]
Experiment 2 Anode: Ag (s)  Ag+ (aq) + e Anode, cathode [1]
+
Cathode: Ag (aq) + e  Ag (s) State symbols [1]
(b) (i) White precipitate formed as precipitation reaction has occurred. [1]
AgNO3 + NaCl  AgCl + NaNO3 or Ag+ + Cl−  AgCl [1]
(ii) Ag+ ions in electrolyte are replenished by oxidation of silver anode in experiment 2 but [1]
not in experiment 1, thus discharge of Ag+ ions and deposit of silver stops after some
time in experiment 1.
Sodium chloride forms white precipitate in experiment 2 but not in experiment 1, showing [1]
presence of Ag+ ions only in experiment 2 / absence of Ag+ions in 1.
(c) Iron is more reactive than silver and gold is less reactive than silver. [1]
Note: reference must be made to the reactivity of both iron and gold in comparison with
silver.

B9 (a) (i) From red-brown/orange to colourless. [1]

Either (ii) Red-brown/orange colour of bromine would remain. [1]

(b) Margarine 3, which contains (100−40−20)=40% by mass of water, [1]

as compared to 10% each in margarine 1 and 2. NOT: % mass of fat [1]
(c) 3 drops (because unsaturated fat content identical to margarine 3) [1]
(d) (i) No. Oil C needs more iodine than oil D so C contains more unsaturated fat than D, [1]
but the amount of iodine is not linked to the amount of saturated/total fat. [1]
(ii) Number of moles of fat = 100 ÷ 400 = 0.25 mol
Number of moles of iodine, I2 = 127 ÷ (127 × 2) = 0.5 mol [1]
0.25 mol of fat reacts with 0.5 mol of iodine,
thus 1 mol of fat reacts with 2 mol of iodine. [1]
Since 1 molecule (or 2 atoms) of iodine is added to each double bond that opens up,
1 molecule of fat contains 2 double bonds. [1]

B9 (a) (i) To ensure that the reaction is complete. [1]

OR (ii) 2 Cu (s) + O2 (g)  2 CuO (s)
Number of moles of copper at the start of the experiment = 1.00g ÷ 64 = 0.015625 mol
Expected number of moles of CuO formed = 0.015625 mol (2:2 ratio) [1]
Expected mass of CuO formed = 0.015625 × (64+16) = 1.25 g > 1.07g [1]
Since the theoretical mass of copper (II) oxide formed is greater than 1.07g, not all the [1]
copper has reacted.
(b) (i) Nitrogen
(ii) Air consists of approximately 21% of oxygen. Assuming all of the oxygen was used up, [1]
total volume of gas left = 3
× 200 cm = 158 cm 3 [1]
(c) Jar B would give a bigger mass change; [1]
In Jar A, oxygen is used up by combustion; [1]
In Jar B, oxygen has been replenished by photosynthesis [1]

Reject: discussion about changes to the composition of air and no relation to the results
of the tests.

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
GCE O-Level 2014
5073 Pure Chemistry Answers
Paper 1
Question Answer Remarks
41 B
42 A
43 A
44 B
45 A
46 A
47 C
48 D
49 D
50 B

51 C Carbon dioxide is the only gas collected at room temperature.

52 D
53 B
54 A
55 D
56 A
57 B Increasing pressure only increase the rates of reactions with
gaseous reactants.
58 C
59 C
60 C

61 C Insoluble copper(II) carbonate is the green precipitate formed.

62 D
63 C
64 D
65 C
66 A
67 B
68 C
69 A
70 C

71 B Principle of conservation of mass:

total mass of products = total mass of reactants
72 B
73 B
74 B
75 D
76 B
77 C
78 B Rotation about the C–C single bond is possible. Each C atom in
the monomer must be bonded to CH3 or Cl but not both.
79 D
80 D

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

Paper 2
A1 (a) D [1]
(b) C [1]
(c) (i) B, C [1]
(ii) (NH4)2SO4 [1]
(d) A, E [1]

A2 (a) (i) Atoms in stainless steel have different sizes. This disrupts the orderly arrangement of [1]
atoms in pure iron.
Thus, the layers in stainless steel cannot slide over each other when a force is applied, [1]
making stainless steel harder than iron.
(ii) Cr3+ [1]
(iii) The layer of chromium oxide on the surface acts as a physical barrier that prevents the [1]
iron underneath from coming into contact with oxygen and water.
(b) (i) No, iron will not rust. Chromium oxidises/corrodes/reacts in preference to iron OR [1]
chromium offers sacrificial protection. Reject: Chromium “rusts”.
(ii) Electrolysis / electroplating [1]
Reject: Galvanising

A3 (a) Ester [1]

(b) Poly(ethene) / polyethene [1]
(c) [2]

(d) Addition polymerisation Condensation polymerisation [3]

No atoms or molecules are lost in the Small molecules such as water are lost as
process of the reaction. by-products.
Monomers used must be Monomers may be saturated or
unsaturated. unsaturated.
Can involve only one type of Two or more types of monomers / Monomer
monomer. needs to have two functional groups.

(e) 200 carbon atoms [1]

A4 (a) Energy released per mole of propanol burned = −2010 kJ

Mass of propanol in 1 mole =1 x [3(12) + 7(1) + 16 + 1] = 60 g [1]
Enthalpy change of combustion of propanol = −2010 / 60 = −33.5 kJ/g [1]
Reject: wrong / missing unit
(b) The amount of energy absorbed for breaking of bonds in the alcohol and oxygen [1]
is less than the [1]
amount of energy released from the formation of bonds in carbon dioxide and water. [1]
Reject: energy “needed” to form bonds
(c) The number of bonds increased from methanol to butanol. [1]
(d) (Any 3) [2]
Boiling and melting point / viscosity / density of the alcohols increases.
Flammability / Solubility of the alcohols in water decreases.
[3 correct: 2m, 2 correct: 1m, 1 or none correct: no mark]
(e) (i) C2H5OH + 3 O2 2 CO2 + 3 H2O [1]
CH3OCH3 + 3 O2 2 CO2 + 3 H2O [1]
(ii) The amount of energy needed to break bonds in ethanol is higher than that needed to [2]
break bonds in dimethylether.

A5 (a) Positive electrode: 4 OH− (aq) 2 H2O (l) + O2 (g) + 4 e− [1]

Negative electrode: Cu2+ (aq) + 2 e− Cu (s) [1]
(1m for correct state symbols) [1]
(b) (i) The mass of the electrode increases with time. [1]
(ii) 4.15 g / the reading at 20 minutes. [1]
Mass of the electrode generally increases by about 0.4 g every 10 minutes, but from [1]
the 10th to the 20th minute, it increases by only 0.24 g, from 3.91 g to 4.15 g.
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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
(iii) All the copper(II) ions have been used up. [1]
Reject: All the “copper” have been used up.
(c) The mass of the cathode will continue to increase after 60 minutes. [1]
The anode is oxidised (or dissolves) to form more copper(II) ions in the solution. [1]
Reject: Copper “discharged” to form copper(II) ions.
Mass / size of anode decreases. [1]

A6 (a) Cracking breaks down larger hydrocarbons into smaller hydrocarbons, [1]
which are more useful / higher in demand. [1]
(b) [2]

(c) [3]
Energy Correct shape and labels for reactants and
products – 1;
Correct Ea with single- direction arrowhead - 1;
Ea
Correct ∆H with single- direction arrowhead – 1;
products
(uncatalysed) (Maximum 2 marks if direction of change not
Ea clearly indicated)
(catalysed) ∆H
reactants

Progress of reaction

(d) Product 1 is not an isomer as it has a different molecular formula. [1]

Product 2 is an isomer as it has same molecular formula and different structural [1]
formula.

B7 (a) 2 NaOH + H2SO4 Na2SO4 + 2 H2O

moles of NaOH used = (20 / 1000) x 0.1 = 0.002 mol
moles of H2SO4 reacted = 0.002 / 2 = 0.001 mol [1]
concentration of H2SO4 reacted = [0.001 / (20 / 1000)] = 0.05 mol / dm3 [1]
or
One mole of sulfuric acid requires two moles of sodium hydroxide to neutralise. [1]
Since the volume of both sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide used is equal, the [1]
concentration of sulfuric acid must be half that of sodium hydroxide, i.e. 0.05 mol / dm3
(b) (i) A strong acid is completely ionised to produce many hydrogen ions, while a weak acid [1]
only partially ionised to produce little hydrogen ions.
(ii) Titiration 1 Titration 2 [2]
pH of HCl before addition of NaOH is 1. pH of CH3COOH before addition of
NaOH is 2.5.
pH of solution remains largely constant pH of solution gradually increases from 0
from 0 cm3 to 20 cm3 of NaOH added, cm3 to 20 cm3 of NaOH added, and it
3
and it increases sharply after 20 cm of increases less sharply than Titration 1
NaOH is added. after 20 cm3 of NaOH is added.
Extent of pH change / overall change in pH is greater for Titration 1
Endpoint is lower in Titration 1.
(any two)
+ −
(c) (i) Step 1: H3PO4 H + H2PO4 [1]
Step 2: H2PO4
− +
H + HPO4
2− [1]
(ii) Na2HPO4 [1]
(d) (i) When strong acids are titrated with dilute sodium hydroxide, a sharp increase in pH [1]
occurs, from 2.5 to 11.5.
All three indicators change colour in this range, between pH 3 and pH 10. [1]
(ii) The colour change for methyl orange indicator occurs between pH 3 to 5, which falls [1]
outside the range for the sharp increase in pH for the titration of ethanoic acid with
dilute sodium hydroxide, pH 8 to 11.
(iii) Phenolphthalein [1]

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
B8 (a) Diamond Graphite [4]
Made out of carbon atoms that are covalently bonded together.
Has a giant covalent structure.
Carbon atoms arranged in Carbon atoms arranged in layers of hexagons
tetrahedral structure. held together by weak Van der Waal’s forces
of attraction.
Each carbon atom is bonded to four Each carbon atom is bonded to three other
other carbon atoms. carbon atoms, leaving every carbon atom with
one free valence electron that is not bonded.

(b) Graphite Carbon dioxide

Has high melting and boiling points Has low melting and boiling points [2]
because of the strong covalent bonds because of the weak forces of
between carbon atoms in its giant attraction between the carbon dioxide
covalent structure. molecules.
A lot of thermal energy is required to Little thermal energy is required to
overcome these covalent bonds. overcome these forces of attraction.
Has good electrical conductivity because Unable to conduct electricity as there
of delocalised electrons between layers are no mobile charge carrier. [1]
that are free to move.
Is insoluble in water as it does not react It is able to ionise in water to form
[1]
with water. hydrogen ions.

B9 (a) [2]
Either 1m for correct no. of
Br P Br
bonding electrons;
1m for correct no. of non-
Br bonding electrons

(b) PBr3 + 3 H2O H3PO3 + 3 HBr [1]

(c) (i) Increases from 0 in phosphorus to +3 in phosphorus tribromide. [1]
(ii) moles of PBr3 = 54.2 / (31 + 3 x 80) = 0.200 mol [1]
moles of Br2 = (0.200 / 2) x 3 = 0.300 mol [1]
mass of Br2 reacted = 0.300 x 2 x 80 = 48.0 g [1]
(d) (i) The reaction with chlorine proceeds at a faster rate than that with bromine. [1]
Chlorine is more reactive than bromine as chlorine is above bromine in Group VII. [1]
(ii) Phosphorus trichloride might be converted back to phosphorus and chlorine as the [1]
reaction is reversible.

B9 (a) number of shells of electrons in +1 ion number of shells of electrons in −1 ion [2]
OR 1 2
2 3
3 4
(b) The atomic radii increase down Group I, [1]
as the number of electron shells increases. [1]
(c) (i) The radius decreases from 152 pm to 68 pm. [1]
(ii) When the lithium atom loses its outermost electron, the number of electron shells [1]
decreases from 2 to 1, leading to a decrease in radius.
(iii) Lithium atom Lithium ion [2]
1m for lithium atom drawn correctly
1m for lithium ion drawn correctly with
Li Li +1 charge and a smaller radius than
lithium atom
(d) Prediction: any answer between 100 pm and 130 pm [1]
Strontium has an atomic radius between that of sodium and potassium atoms, so we
can also expect the ionic radius of the strontium ion to be between that of sodium and
potassium ions. [1]

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
GCE O-Level 2015
5073 Pure Chemistry Answers
Paper 1
Question Answer Remarks
81 B
82 D
83 D
84 B
85 C
86 B Bond formation is exothermic and releases energy.
87 A
88 A
89 B
90 D

91 C
92 C
93 D
94 C
95 A
96 B
97 A
98 D
99 C
100 B

101 D
102 B Main impurity in haematite is silica (sand), but main impurity in the
iron formed is carbon.
103 D
104 B
105 B
106 C
107 D
108 C
109 A Brass is a mixture of zinc and copper.
110 A Statement 2: Dry air does not contain water so iron will not corrode.

111 A
112 D
113 B
114 A
115 B
116 B
117 C
118 B
119 C
120 A Monomers of nylon are dicarboxylic acids and diols.

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

Paper 2
A1 (a) Element Most common OS Metal or non-metal? [1]
A –2 non-metal
B +2, +3, +4, +6, +7 metal
C +1 non-metal
D +3 metal
E –1 non-metal
(b) (i) C [1]
(ii) A [1]
(iii) B [1]
(c) Elements from Group 0 are stable as they have fully-filled valence electron shells. [1]
Hence, they do not have to gain, lose or share electrons to obtain noble gas [1]
configuration.

A2 (a) (i) The more reactive the metal, the higher the temperature needed for reduction. [1]
(ii) 700oC. Iron is less reactive than zinc but more reactive than lead. Thus, the temperature [2]
needed for reduction lies between that of zinc oxide (900oC) and lead oxide (400oC).
Reject: Iron is between zinc and lead.
(b) magnesium; silver oxide (Both correct to score for 1 mark) [1]
(c) Zinc oxide [1]
Hydrogen gas [1]

A3 (a) Name of Structural Process(es) used to manufacture the [5]

compound formula compound
Fractional distillation of crude oil followed
ethene
by catalytic cracking.

poly(ethene) Addition polymerisation of ethene.

Two separate processes can be used.

Process 1: Catalytic addition of steam to
ethanol
ethene.
Process 2: Fermentation of glucose.

ethanoic acid Oxidation of ethanol.

(b) (i) Both reactions produce a salt and water. [1]

OR Both reactions are neutralisation reactions.
(ii) Ethanoic acid is a weak acid and dissociates partially in water to form few H+ ions while [1]
hydrochloric acid is a strong acid and dissociates completely in water to form many H+
ions. Hence, for the same concentration of acid, there is a lower concentration of H+ [1]
ions present in ethanoic acid than in hydrochloric acid, resulting in less frequent
collisions between the H+ ions and the metal oxides. Hence, the rate of reaction with
metal oxides is slower with dilute ethanoic acid than dilute hydrochloric acid.

A4 (a) 660oC (any value close to 700oC) [1]

(b) The amount of energy needed to dissolve aluminium in ionic solvent is greater than [1]
that needed to heat aluminium cans (900oC vs 700oC).
The input of electrical energy is required for electrolysis to occur during the extraction [1]
of aluminium from bauxite.
(c) NaOH is a strong alkali and corrosive. When released into the environment, it will [1]
increase the pH in water bodies and destroys aquatic marine.
CO2 is a greenhouse gas which traps heat and causes global warming, resulting in [1]
melting polar ice caps, rising sea levels and floods.
(d) Recycling reduces the need for extraction of metals from ores which are finite/ non- [1]
renewable resources.
(e) (i) Alloy [1]
(ii) Duralumin is stronger and harder than pure aluminium. [1]
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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
A5 (a) At the cathode: 2H+ (aq) + 2 e− H2 (g) [1]
At the anode: 4 OH− (aq) 2 H2O (l) + O2 (g) + 4 e− [1]
(state symbols not required)
(b) (i) Since the overall reaction is 2H2O (l) 2H2 (g) + O2 (g), 2 moles of H2 and 1 mole [1]
of O2 are formed. Hence, the theoretical ratio of hydrogen to oxygen is 2:1. [1]
(ii) The ratio of H2:O2 collected would be greater than 2:1. [1]
This is because more O2 than H2 dissolves into the surrounding solution, resulting in [1]
the volume of O2 collected to be less than half that of H2.
(iii) When electrolysis starts, the concentration of dissolve O2 is low. After some time, the [1]
solution becomes saturated with O2 and O2 is less likely to dissolve in the solution.
(c) The concentration of NaCl increases over time. As water is electrolysed to produce H2 [1]
and O2, the volume of water in the electrolyte decreases. Since the number of moles
of NaCl remains the same, the concentration of NaCl increases over time.
(d) Similarity: Both processes produce hydrogen gas at the cathode. [1]
Difference: For aqueous NaCl, oxygen gas is produced at the anode. For concentrated [1]
NaCl, chlorine gas is produced at the anode.
(e) Platinum is inert and does not participate in the reaction. As the anode, it is not oxidised [1]
and allows the respective anions to be preferentially discharged instead.

A6 (a) Limestone is insoluble in water and must be mixed well with soil to reduce its acidity. [1]
Since quicklime and slaked lime can form alkaline solutions, they can easily flow to all [1]
parts of the soil and neutralise the acidity faster.
(b) (i) Slag contains other non-metal compounds which may include nitrogen or phosphorus- [1]
containing compounds which are essential for plant growth.
OR Blast furnance slag is a waste product which can be recycled instead of being
discarded.
(ii) Group IV and Group V oxides are non-metallic oxides and form acidic oxides which [1]
increases acidity, not neutralise it. [1]

(c) Percentage by mass of Ca in quicklime = [40 / (40 + 16)] x 100% = 71.4%

Percentage by mass of Ca in limestone = [40 / (40 + 12 + 3(16)] x 100% = 40.0%
Percentage by mass of Ca in slaked lime = [40 / (40 + 2(16 + 1)] x 100% = 54.1%
Correct formula to calculate % by mass of Ca in quicklime – 1 mark
Correct formula to calculate % by mass of Ca in limestone and slaked lime – 1 mark [3]
All answers correct to 3 sf – 1 mark
(d) No of moles of limestone = (25 x 106) / (40 + 12 + 3(16)) = 250 000 mol [1]
CaCO3 CaO + CO2
From the balanced equation,
1 mol CaCO3  1 mol CO2 [1]
250 000 mol CaCO3  250 000 mol CO2
Volume of CO2 produced = 250 000 x 24 = 6 x 106 dm3 [1]

B7 (a) As the number of carbon atoms per molecule increases, the melting and boiling points [1]
of the alkane increases. (Note: trends)
(b) Propane. The expected melting point of propane is –160oC but the actual melting point [1]
is –188oC. or Propane has one more carbon atom than ethane but its melting point is
lower than that of ethane.
(c) Melting point: –80oC; Boiling point: 96oC [1]
(d) The greater the number of carbon atoms, the higher the boiling point and flashpoint of [1]
straight chain alkanes.
(e) Isomerisation lowers the flashpoint of an alkane with the same number of carbon [1]
atoms. Comparing pentane and branched alkane 1, the flashpoint decreased from [1]
–49oC to –57oC.
The greater the extent of branching, the lower the flashpoint for the alkane with the [1]
same number of carbon atoms. Comparing branched alkanes 1 and 2 where the [1]
number of branches increases from 1 to 2 respectively, the flashpoint decreases from
–57oC to –65oC.
(f) (i) Pure octane requires a temperature of 13C for ignition, which might not be feasible in [1]
winter. Increased amounts of pentane and branched alkane 2 will lower the flashpoint [1]
of the mixture, making it easier for the petrol to be ignited.
(ii) Petrol is lost by vaporisation and diffusion. [1]
Given pentane’s low boiling point of 36C, very hot weather conditions would lead to [1]
rapid loss of petrol that contains pentane.
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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

B8 (a) CO and NO production decrease in a lean burn engine. With a higher air to fuel ratio, [1]
the presence of more oxygen increases the likelihood of complete combustion of fuel, [1]
hence reducing the formation of CO. At a lower running temperature of the engine, the [1]
inert N2 is less likely to combust to form NO since N2 only reacts with O2 at high
temperatures.
(b) 2 CO + 2 NO 2 CO2 + N2 [1]
(c) (i) Increased amounts of air increases the amount of CO removed, but decreases the [1]
amount of NO removed.
Increased amounts of air increases the amount of O2 which increases the amount of [1]
CO oxidised to CO2.
Increased amounts of air hinders the reduction of NO to N2 due to the increased amount [1]
of O2 present.
(ii) If CO and NO only react with each other, then the increase or decrease in their [1]
percentage removal should be in tandem. However, the graph shows that the
percentage removal of CO and NO are opposite to each other.

B9 (a) Energy is released/given out when LiCl is dissolved in water while energy is [2]
Either absorbed/taken in when NaCl is dissolved in water.
Temperature of surroundings rises/increases when LiCl is dissolved in water while [2]
temperature of surroundings drops/decreases when NaCl is dissolved in water.
(b) (i) The reaction is endothermic and there is a positive energy gain when potassium [1]
chloride is dissolved. Thus, the calculated energy change has a ‘+’ sign.
(ii) No of moles of KCl = 4.0 / (39 + 35.5) = 0.05369 mol [1]

H per mol of KCl = (+720) / 0.05369 [1]

= 13 410 J/mol = +13.4 kJ/mol (3sf) [1]
(iii) When potassium chloride is dissolved in water, the particles change from a closely- [1]
packed and orderly arrangement, to being spaced apart randomly between the water
molecules. [1]
The movement of particles also change from vibration about fixed positions to sliding
across one another freely.

B9 (a) (i) Fluorine is more reactive than bromine. [1]

OR Hence, it displaces bromine from potassium bromide, forming bromine which is brown [1]
in colour.
Ionic equation: F2 (g) + 2 Br− (aq) 2F− (aq) + Br2 (aq) [1]
(ii) In the experiment with chlorine gas, the colourless solution turns brown due to the [1]
formation of bromine.
In the experiment with iodine gas, the solution remains colourless. [1]
Chlorine is more reactive than bromine, hence chlorine can displace bromine from [1]
potassium bromide. However, iodine is less reactive than bromine hence no
displacement reaction occurs.

(b) (i) 2 Fe (s) + 3 F2 (g) 2 FeF3 (s) [2]

(1m for correct state symbols)
(ii) Fluorine increases the oxidation state of iron from 0 in Fe to +3 in FeF3. [1]
Fluorine removes 3 electrons from each Fe atom to form Fe3+ ions. [1]

Reject: reverse arguments, e.g. fluorine’s oxidation state is decreased; fluorine gains
electrons.

12
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
GCE O-Level 2016
5073 Pure Chemistry Answers
Paper 1
Question Answer Remarks
121 C Halogens are oxidizing agents (hence do not react with KMnO4).
122 D Aluminum reduces NO3– to NH3.
123 B
124 C
125 B
126 D
127 A
128 C
129 B
130 D

131 C
132 A
133 D
134 C
135 C
136 A
137 B
138 B
139 A
140 C

141 C
142 B
143 C
144 C Nitrates of less reactive metals are less thermally stable, thus
decompose on heating.
145 A
146 A
147 B
148 D
149 C
150 B Compound in C is symmetrical and therefore would give the same
product regardless of how the steam adds across the double bond.

151 C
152 A
153 C
154 B
155 D
156 D
157 D
158 A
159 D
160 C

13
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

Paper 2
A1 (a) only true down only true across [2]
trend true for both
a group a period
The number of electron shells

increases
The number of valency electrons

increases
Proton number increases 
There is a change in character from

metallic to non-metallic

(b) (i) Melting point decreases down Group I. Melting point increases down Group VII. [1]
(ii) Reactivity increases down Group I. Reactivity decreases down Group VII. [1]

(c) Catalysts provide an alternative reaction pathway that requires a lower activation energy, thus [1]
reduces amount of energy required and costs.
Catalysts are reusable / are not used up in reactions, thus incurs only initial costs / does not [1]
incur further costs in subsequent runs.
Note: Answers must clearly link to reduction in long term costs.

A2 (a) Extraction of Fe from Fe2O3 involves reduction as oxidation state of iron decreases from +3 in [1]
Fe2O3 to 0 in Fe.
Rusting of Fe to Fe2O3 involves oxidation as oxidation state of iron increases from 0 in Fe to +3 [1]
in Fe2O3.

(b) (i) An alloy is a mixture of a metal and another element. For example, steel is an alloy of iron and
carbon. [1]
(ii) The oil paint and plastic coating act as physical barriers to prevent the iron/steel from coming [1]
into contact with water and oxygen. [1]

(iii) Zinc is more reactive metal than iron / zinc is higher in the reactivity series than iron. [1]
Zinc corrodes/oxidises (reject: rusts) in place of iron. [1]

A3 (a) The table shows that the larger the CO2 concentration, the larger the difference between [1]
predicted and actual surface temperature.
This is because CO2 is a greenhouse gas which traps the heat/radiation from the sun. [1]

(b) (i) From volcanic eruptions. [1]

Reject: Combustion of fuels that contain sulfur compounds.
(ii) The pH of the water on water would be low/lowered (not: water becomes more acidic) because [1]
sulfur dioxide dissolves in water to form sulfuric acid.
(iii) Venus’s actual surface temperature of 462°C is above the boiling point of water hence rainwater [1]
would have boiled / vaporised / turned into a gas before reaching its surface.

(c) (i) Plants convert CO2 and water into oxygen and glucose during photosynthesis. [1]
Hence, the appearance of plants would result in a decrease in the percentage of CO2 and an
increase in the percentage of O2. [1]
(ii) Increased burning of fossil fuel for energy increased the amount of CO2 released into the
atmosphere, and deforestation decreased the amount of CO2 removed from the atmosphere. [1]
(iii) [3]

Correct no. of shared electrons [1]

Correct no. of unshared outer electrons [1]
Only outer electrons shown, i.e. no inner shell electrons [1]

14
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

A4 (a) name of salt formula of name of acid used name of other compound
salt to make salt used to make salt
potassium sulfate K2SO4 sulfuric acid potassium
oxide/hydroxide/hydroxide [1]
potassium K3PO4 phosphoric acid Potassium
phosphate oxide/hydroxide/carbonate [1]
ammonium nitrate NH4NO3 nitric acid aqueous ammonia [1]
calcium phosphate Ca3(PO4)2 phosphoric acid calcium hydroxide [1]

(b) Potassium phosphate and ammonium nitrate. [1]

(c) (i) Calcium phosphate [1]
The ratio indicates there is no N and K in the salt and Calcium phosphate does not contain any [1]
N and K, only P.
(ii) Percentage mass of P in K3PO4 = 31/ (3(39)+31+4(16)) × 100% = 31/212 × 100 = 15% [3]
Percentage mass of K in K3PO4 = 3(39)/212 × 100% = 55%
N : P : K ratio of K3PO4 = 0 : 15 : 55 = 0 : 3 : 11

A5 (a) Silver chloride, barium sulfate and lead sulfate [1]

These salts are insoluble in water and can be precipitated, [1]
From the reaction between two aqueous solutions, such as mixing AgNO3 (aq) with NaCl (aq)
to form AgCl (s) / mixing Ba(NO3)2 (aq) with Na2SO4 (aq) to form BaSO4 (s) / mixing Pb(NO3)2 [1]
(aq) with Na2SO4 (aq) to form PbSO4 (s).
(b) compound use [3]
detergents packaging FGD inks road surfaces
bitumen 
sulfuric acid 
ethene 
ethyl ethanoate 
calcium carbonate 
A6 (a) The aldehydes shown share the same general formula of CnH2n+1CHO [1]
and succesive members from methanal to ethanal to propanal differ by CH2. [1]
(b) C3H7CHO, [1]
Any temperature between 70°C and 90°C (reject: missing unit) [1]
(c) (i) Isomers are molecules with the same molecular formula but different structural formula. [1]
Ethanol and methoxymethane are isomers as they have the same molecular formula of C2H6O
but are structured differently as the O in ethanol is bonded to C and H while the O in [1]
methoxymethane is bonded to only C.
Ethanal is not an isomer of ethanol and methoxymethane as it has a different molecular formula
of C2H4O. [1]

(ii) 2 C2H4O + 5 O2  4 CO2 + 4 H2O [2]

(iii)

[1]

B7 (a) X – nylon 4, 6 [3]

Y – nylon 11 Reject: X – 4, 6 and Y – 11
(b) [2]

(c) Molecular mass of at least 10,000 required therefore [1]

Minimum number of repeating units= 10,000 / (2(14) + 22 + 12(12) + 2(16)) = 45 ( rounded up) [1]

15
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
(d) Diamine – increase in chain length of the diamine decreases the melting point. As the chain
length of diamine increases from 4 in nylon 4,6, to 6 in nylon 6,6, the melting point decreases
from 275 °C to 269 °C.

Dicarboxylic acid – increase in chain length of the dicarboxylic acid also decreases the melting
point. As the chain length of dicarboxylic acid increases from 6 in nylon 6,6, to 10 in nylon 6,10,
to 12 in nylon 6,12, the melting point decreases from 269 °C to 220 °C to 218 °C.
Correct trends [1], Correct reasoning [1] each

(e) No. of moles of monomers in 1kg of nylon 6= 1000 / (14 + 6(12) + 11 +16) = 1000/113 = 8.85
No. of moles of CO2 = 8.85 × 6 = 53.1 [1]
Mass of CO2 = 53.1 × (12+32) = 2.34 kg [1]

B8 (a) N2 + 3 H2  2 NH3 [1]

The reaction ratio of N2 : H2 shown in the equation is 1 : 3, which also applies to their volume
ratio as both reactants are gases. [1]

(b) (i) A lower pressure decreases the number of particles per unit volume, [1]
which leads to a decreased frequency of successful collision between particles. [1]

(ii) A lower pressure decreases the relative amount of ammonia, but increases the amount of
nitrogen and hydrogen that leave the reactor. [1]
At each temperature, the graph shows a decreasing % yield of ammonia as pressure is
decreased, which also means there is an increased amount of unreacted nitrogen and hydrogen. [1]

(iii) The final amount of ammonia produced is unaffected / remains the same, [1]
Because the unreacted nitrogen and hydrogen at each pass are recycled. [1]

B9 (a) (Concentrated)
Either Negative electrode: Copper, Cu2+ (aq)+ 2 e  Cu(s) [1]
Positive electrode: Chlorine, 2 Cl – (aq)  Cl2(g) + 2 e [1]
(Dilute)
Negative electrode: Copper, Cu2+ (aq)+ 2 e  Cu(s) [1]
Positive electrode: Water and oxygen, 4 OH– (aq)  2H2O (l) + O2 (g) + 4 e [1]

(b) (i) Zinc and Sodium hydroxide [1]

(ii) Reagent A: Both solutions turn from blue to colourless, [1]
and pink-brown deposit of copper metal. [1]
Reagent B: White precipitate (of silver chloride) is formed only with aqueous copper chloride. [1]
Reagent C: White precipitate (of barium sulfate) is formed only when barium nitrate is added to
copper(II) sulfate. [1]
Reagent D: Blue precipitate (of copper(II) hydroxide) formed in both solutions. [1]

B9 (a) (i) Blue solution turns green, and pink-brown deposits formed. [2]
OR (ii) (any two)
Metals are finite resources.
Reduces need to mine copper.
Less energy required to extract copper by adding scrap iron to mining waste, than by chemical
reduction of copper ore in a blast furnace. [2]
(b) 2 Br – (aq) + Cl2 (g)  Br2 (aq) + 2 Cl – (aq) Reject: Br2(l) [2]
(c) Similarities (any two):
 Involves both oxidation and reduction.
 More reactive element displaces a less reactive one from its compound.
 Solution changes colour. [2]
Differences:
 In the copper displacement reaction, the blue solution turns green and copper is deposited
as a pink-brown solid while in the bromide displacement reaction the solution turns from
colourless to orange and bromine is displaced as a liquid.
 In the displacement of copper ions, the copper (II) ions are reduced to copper, whereas in
the displacement of bromide ions, the bromide ions are oxidised to form bromine. [2]

16
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
GCE O-Level 2017
5073 Pure Chemistry Answers
Paper 1
Question Answer Remarks
161 D
162 C
163 A
164 B
165 C
166 A
167 B
168 D
169 C
170 C

171 D
172 C
173 C
174 A
175 D note the H atom in the –OH group
176 C
177 C
178 A
179 D strong acid has low pH
180 A

181 A
182 C
183 A
184 D
185 B
186 D
187 B
188 B
189 D
190 D

191 C the main impurity in the iron formed is carbon/coke.

192 C related to moles of metals reacted, not reactivity of metals
193 C
194 A
195 C
196 A
197 B
198 A addition reaction, not substitution reaction
199 C
200 B

17
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
Paper 2
A1 (a) (I) Fe [1]
(ii) Al [1]
(iii) Cu [1]
(iv) O2 [1]
(v) Zn [1]
(b) (I) Cu, Fe, Zn [1]
Question asked for elements
(ii)  Exhibit variable oxidation states in their compounds [2]
 Formed coloured compounds
 Acts as good catalyst
Question asked for characteristic properties

A2 (a) (I) AgNO3 (aq) + KX (aq)  AgX (s) + KNO3 (aq) [2]
(ii) Reaction 1 is a non-redox reaction as there is no change in oxidation states of Ag, N, O, K and [1]
X.
Reaction 2 is a redox reaction. [1]
Oxidation state of silver decreases from +1 in AgX to 0 in Ag.
Oxidation state of X increases from -1 in AgX to 0 in X2.
(b) (i) Yellow [1]
(ii) The more reactive the halogen, the faster the rate of breakdown of the silver halide. [1]

A3 (a) Combustion [1]

(b) (i) Photosynthesis: 6 CO2 + 6 H2O  C6H12O6 + 6 O2 [1]
Respiration: C6H12O6 + 6 O2  6 CO2 + 6 H2O [1]
(ii) Carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere by respiration and removed from the [1]
atmosphere by photosynthesis.
Reject: plants remove carbon dioxide while animals release it.
(c) Plants respire 24 hours a day and only photosynthesise in the presence of sunlight. Hence, [1]
excess carbon dioxide will still be released into the atmosphere.
Planting more trees only helps to replace trees that are cut down due to deforestation, but not [1]
remove the excess carbon dioxide released from the burning of fossil fuels.

A4 (a) (i) Cracking [1]

(ii) There is a higher demand for smaller hydrocarbons/fractions/molecules such as petrol than for [1]
the bigger ones.
Cracking breaks down larger molecules into smaller ones to meet the demands. [1]
(b) [2]

(c) reagent observation for ethane observation for propene [2]

Aqueous bromine Aqueous bromine remains Aqueous bromine turns from

reddish-brown. reddish-brown to colourless.
(d) (i) Similarity: presence of carbon-carbon double bonds. [1]
Difference: vegetable oils contain many/more than one carbon-carbon double bonds while
each alkene molecule only has one carbon-carbon double bond. [1]
Reject: comparison between chain lengths.
(ii) Hydrogen gas is added to unsaturated vegetable oils to form margarine, [1]
in the presence of a nickel catalyst at 200°C. [1]

A5 (a) Most reactive to least reactive: magnesium, chromium, cobalt, copper [1]
(b) Copper(II) sulfate: blue [2]
Cobalt(II) sulfate: pink
chromium(III) sulfate: green

18
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
(c) (i) [3]

(ii) 2 Cr + 3 Co2+  2 Cr3+ + 3 Co Correct ions and charges[1], balanced [1] [2]
(d) Calcium is a reactive metal that reacts with water in the solution to form hydrogen gas. [1]

A6 (a) (i) [2]

(ii) [1]

(iii) Freon-14 [1]

(iv) Freon-14 cannot be classified as CFCs as it does not contain any chlorine atom. [1]
(b) The bond energy of C-Cl bond is lower than that of C-F bond. [1]
Hence, less energy is needed to break the C-Cl bonds and release chlorine atoms than break
C-F bonds and release fluorine atoms. [1]
(c) (i) Cl + 2 O3  3 O2 + Cl [2]
(ii) Chlorine atoms are not used up in the reaction and are regenerated. [1]
Reject: Chlorine atoms do not take part in the reaction.

B7 (a) (i) Elemental composition by mass of iron in first sample = (20.0/28.6) x 100% [1]
= 69.9% ≈ 70.0%
Elemental composition by mass of iron in second sample = (30.0/42.7) x 100%
= 70.3% ≈ 70.0%

Elemental composition by mass of mercury in first sample = (25.0/27.0) x 100% [1]

= 92.6% ≈ 93.0%
Elemental composition by mass of mercury in second sample =(40.0/41.6) x 100%
= 96.2% ≈ 96.0%

Iron obeys the Law of Constant Composition when it is heated in air but not mercury. [1]

(ii) Element Pb O Pb O [1]

Mass/g 25.0 1.9 30.0 2.3
Number of moles 0.121 0.119 0.145 0.144
Simplest ratio 1 1 1 1
Empirical formula PbO PbO [1]
The oxide formed when lead is heated in air is lead(II) oxide.
[1]

(b) (i) Compare type of elements and number of atoms between Dalton’s and the modern formulae. [1]
Dalton’s formula for water has the correct elements of hydrogen and oxygen but there are only
one hydrogen atom and one oxygen atom instead of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen. [1]
Dalton’s formula for hydrochloric acid has a wrong element, oxygen, present and the wrong
total number of atoms. Modern formula has a total of 2 atoms (1 hydrogen and 1 chlorine
atom) while Dalton’s formula has 4 atoms (1 hydrogen and 3 oxygen atoms). [1]

19
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
For nitrogen monoxide, both the modern and Dalton’s formulae contain the same two elements
and same numbers of atoms (1 nitrogen and 1 oxygen atom). [1]
(ii) Name: Sodium chloride [1]
Reason: Dalton’s formula for the metal salt suggests that sodium has combined with
hydrochloric acid. The reaction between sodium and hydrochloric acid would result in the
formation of the salt, sodium chloride. [1]
Reject: NaOH. Question asked for a salt.

B8 (a) Mr of octane = 114

Vol of 1 mol of octane at rtp = 114 / 703 = 0.162 dm3 (3 s.f.) [1]
Mol of 1 kg of octane = 1000/ 114 = 8.7719 mol
Enthalpy change of 1 kg of octane = (- 5075 x 8.7719) = - 44518 kJ/kg = - 44500 kJ/kg (3 s.f.) [2]
Mol of 1 kg of hydrogen = 1000 / 2 = 500 mol
Enthalpy change of 1 kg of hydrogen = (-286 x 500) = - 143000 kJ/kg [2]
(b) On complete combustion, 1 kg of hydrogen releases higher amount of energy (143000 kJ/kg) [1]
than 1 kg of octane (44500 kJ/kg).
Hydrogen,has a low boiling point of -253°C and is a gas at room temperature and pressure. [1]
Hence it will take up a larger storage volume than octane which has a boiling point of 125°C
and is a liquid at room temperature and pressure.
[1] for the use of data from the table

B9 (a) Cu(NO3)2 [1]

Either (b) (i) Experiment 3.
Comparing experiment 1 and 3, the concentration of hydrochloric acid used is the same (0.5 [1]
mol/dm3) but in experiment 3, the time taken to collect 10 cm3 of gas is shorter (7s) compared
to that in experiment 1 (15s).
This shows that the experiment was carried out at higher temperature where the speed of [1]
reaction is faster.
(ii) At higher temperature, particles have more energy, move faster and collide more frequently. [1]
More particles have sufficient energy to overcome the activation energy. [1]
Total number of effective collisions per unit time increases. [1]
Hence, higher temperature speeds up the rate of reaction.
(c) Experiment Acid Concentration in Time taken to collect Total volume of
mol/dm3 10 cm3 of gas/s gas /cm3 [1]
5 Ethanoic 0.5 30 150
6 Sulfuric 0.5 7 300
Ethanoic acid is a weak acid that partially ionises in water, producing a lower concentration of
hydrogen ions per unit volume compared to hydrochloric acid. Hence the time taken to collect [1]
10 cm3 of gas in experiment 5 is longer than in experiment 1.
The total number of moles of hydrogen ions in ethanoic acid is the same as that in hydrochloric [1]
acid as they are both monobasic. Hence, the total volume of gas collected in experiment 1 and
5 are the same.
Sufuric acid is dibasic. It ionises completely in water to produce twice the concentration of [1]
hydrogen ions as compared to hydrochloric acid. Hence, the time taken to collect 10 cm3 of
gas in experiment 6 is shorter than in experiment 1. The total volume of gas collected in
experiment 6 is also twice the volume of gas collected in experiment 1.

B9 (a) Poly(propene): CH2 Propanol: C3H7OH / CH3CH2CH2OH [2]

OR (b) Bonding: All three compounds contain atoms that are covalently bonded to each other. [1]
In poly(propene) and propanol, the molecules are also held by weak forces of attraction. [1]
Structure: Silicon dioxide has a giant covalent structure while [1]
Propanol has simple molecular structure and poly(propene) has a long chain molecular [1]
structure.
(c) Correct order of the three compounds based on amount of energy needed. [1]
Silicon dioxide has the highest melting point as large amount of energy is needed to overcome
the many strong covalent bonds in the structure. [1]
Propanol has the lowest melting point as the least amount of energy is needed to overcome
the weak forces of attraction between the molecules. [1]
Poly(propene) has a higher melting point than propanol as it has a larger molecular mass and
hence, stronger forces of attraction between poly(propene) molecules than those between the
propanol molecules. More energy is needed to overcome the stronger forces of attraction. [1]

20
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
GCE O-Level 2018
6092 Pure Chemistry Answers
Paper 1
Question Answer Remarks
201 B
202 B
203 C
204 D
205 A
206 A
207 B There are twice as many non-metal anions as metal cations. Thus,
cation is Y2+ and anion is Z–.
208 C
209 D
210 B

211 C
212 C
213 B Concentration of cation has no effect on rate of discharge. Current
is the same throughout a series circuit. No loss in mass from inert
electrodes.
214 B
215 A
216 D
217 C “the coke cools” – endothermic reaction
218 D
219 B
220 A

221 B
222 A
223 A Titration method
224 A
225 D
226 B
227 D
228 D
229 A
230 D

231 C
232 D
233 A Based on actual number of moles, incomplete combustion will occur
234 D
235 B
236 B
237 D
238 C
239 C
240 C

21
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

Paper 2

A1 (a) (i) carbon dioxide, ammonia [1]

(ii) silicon dioxide [1]
(iii) ammonia [1]
(iv) lead(II) nitrate [1]
(v) ammonia [1]

(b) true false

It is an amphoteric oxide 
It is a pollutant which leads to the erosion of buildings. 
It is released from volcanoes. 
It changes the colour of potassium manganate(VII) from colourless to
 [2]
purple.

A2 substance electrodes product of reaction product of reaction

used at positive electrode at negative electrode
concentrated aqueous carbon chlorine copper
copper(II) chloride
dilute aqueous copper(II) copper copper(II) ions copper
sulfate
molten sodium chloride platinum chlorine sodium
[3]

A3 formula of salt formulae of reagents used method used

addition of excess solid to acid

CuO / CuCO3 / Cu(OH)2
CuCl2 (s) filtration
HCl (aq)
evaporation and crystallisation

KOH (aq) titration

KNO3 (aq)
HNO3 (aq) evaporation and crystallisation
Pb(NO3)2 (aq) (ionic) precipitation
PbSO4 (s) [4]
Na2SO4 (aq) filtration

A4 (a) Metals conduct electricity due to their “sea” of delocalised, mobile electrons. [1]
Solutions of ionic compounds conduct electricity due to their mobile positive and negative ions. [1]
(b) When conducting electricity, metals remain chemically unchanged while solutions of ionic
compounds will decompose to form new substances. [1]

A5 (a) nitrogen – 78
oxygen – 21 [1]
(b) (i) Helium has a lower density compared to the gases in the atmosphere, and would eventually rise
above them, making it very difficult to recover. [1]
(ii) Density of pure argon = 40 / 24 = 1.67 g/dm3 [1]
(iii) Helium is a limited resource, [1]
and its medical uses are far more beneficial than its use in entertainment and decoration. [1]
(c) (i) Helium nucleus contains Argon nucleus contains
2 protons and 2 neutrons 18 protons and 22 neutrons

[2]
(ii) Helium and argon both have full valence shells. [1]
This makes them both chemically unreactive. [1]
A6 (a) The temperature requirement of 450°C for stage 2 is also lower than that of 800°C for stage 1.
Less energy is needed to maintain the lower temperature. [1]
The reaction in stage 2 is exothermic, and thermal energy is given out to the surroundings, which
will cause the temperature to rise. [1]

22
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
(b) Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas that can reduce the number of oxygen carriers in the blood. [1]
Burning it will convert it to carbon dioxide, which is relatively harmless. [1]
(c) (i) Thus, the ratio of nitrogen to hydrogen by volume is the same as the mole ratio [1]
of 1 : 3. [1]
(ii) The molar volume is a constant 24 dm3 per mole of gas. [1]
The Mr of N2 is 28, while Mr of H2 is 2. This results in percentage by mass of H2 still being
smaller even though there are three times as many moles of H2. [1]
(iii) This is to convert a higher percentage of nitrogen and hydrogen into ammonia, [1]
and to maximise the yield of ammonia. [1]
(d) (i)

(ii) This prevents the catalyst from coming into contact with the reactants, and lower its
effectiveness at increasing the rate of reaction. [1]
A7 (a) They have one valence electron and they tend to form ions with a +1 charge. [1]
They are both good reducing agents. [1]
(b) Hydrogen does not conduct electricity, while Group I metals can. [1]
Hydrogen does not react with water, while Group I metals can react with water to form alkalis. [1]
(c) (i) Ag2O (s) + H2 (g) → 2 Ag (l) + H2O (g)
(ii) (correct indication of reactants that are reduced and oxidised) [1]
The silver in Ag2O is reduced, as its oxidation state decreases from +1 in Ag2O to 0 in Ag. [1]
The hydrogen in H2 is oxidised, as its oxidation state increases from 0 in H2 to +1 in H2O. [1]
(iii) magnesium oxide copper(II) oxide
observations no visible reaction black solid turns pink / reddish brown [1]
reasons Only oxides of iron and metals below it in the reactivity series are unstable
enough be reduced by hydrogen.
Magnesium is above iron in the Copper is below iron in the reactivity [2]
reactivity series, thus magnesium series, and it thus copper(II) oxide can
oxide cannot be reduced. be reduced.

B8 (a) Lithium’s and sodium’s flame test colours are very close in colour, and the same is true for [1]
potassium, rubidium and caesium.
It will be difficult to differentiate between the elements that produce similar coloured flames. [1]
(b) (i) Mixture contains sodium and rubidium, as the emission lines of sodium and rubidium from
Fig. 8.1 are present in the spectrum given. [1]
Mixture does not contain lithium and potassium, as the emission lines of lithium and potassium
from Fig. 8.1 are absent in the spectrum given. [1]
The other unknown lines may belong to other Group I elements such as caesium and francium,
but there is no information provided on their emission lines. [1]
(ii) Emission spectra of caesium and francium. [1]
(c) (i) Salt 1 – NaCl, Salt 2 – NaBr, Salt 3 – Na2SO4 (only 2 correct – 1m) [2]
(ii) magnesium ion concentration = (0.00420 / 0.6) x 0.15 = 0.00105 mol/dm3 [1]
sodium ion concentration = (0.00420 / 0.6) x 1.0 = 0.00700 mol/dm3 [1]
(d) Ion chromatograms give information on the relative concentrations of each ion present, while
emission spectra only give information on whether a substance is present or not. [1]
Ion chromatograms can identify positive and negative ions, including polyatomic ions, while
emission spectra only identifies Group I atoms and ions. [1]

B9 (a) Each molecule contains three ester linkages (functional groups). [1]
(b)
[1]
(c) The acids in the untreated oils will react with the potassium hydroxide catalyst, removing it. [1]
Thus the reaction will be slower as there is no catalyst present to provide an alternative reaction
pathway with lower activation energy. [1]
(d) Average volume of KOH used = (21.50 + 21.60) / 2 = 21.55 cm3 [1]
Mass of KOH required for 10 g of oil = (21.55 / 1000) x 1.00 = 0.02155 g [1]
Mass of KOH required for 1 kg (1000 g) of oil = (0.02155 / 10) x 1000 = 2.16 g (3s.f.) [1]
23
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

B10 (a) Coke is combusted to produce carbon dioxide: C + O2 → CO2

Either
Coke reacts with more carbon dioxide to produce carbon monoxide, the reducing agent:
C + CO2 →2 CO
Carbon monoxide reduces the iron(III) oxide in haematite to iron:
3 CO + Fe2O3 →3 CO2 + 2 Fe
[4]
(1m per chemical equation, 1m for descriptions)
(b) (i) Haematite contains sand, which is the source of silicon impurities [1]
(ii)

(1st point can be covered by

diagram)

The impurity atoms in impure iron have a different size than iron atoms, [1]
and they disrupt the layers of iron atoms, making the layers unable to slide over each other. [1]
Thus impure iron is stronger (and more brittle) than pure iron. [1]
(c) It reduces the environmental problems caused by extraction of iron from haematite.
It reduces the financial costs from extraction of iron from haematite.
It saves space in landfills, that would be occupied by scrap steel. [2]
(any two, 1m each)

B10 (a) The crude oil is heated in a furnace, which causes it to vaporise. [1]
OR The crude oil vapour passes into the fractionating column, and is separated into fractions. [1]
Each fraction is a mixture of hydrocarbons which boils over a certain temperature range. [1]
Fractions with lower Mr have lower boiling point ranges, and fractions with higher Mr have higher
boiling point ranges [1]
The lower the boiling point range of the fraction, the higher up the column it is collected. [1]
(b) (i) Cracking: Process C. Heptane, C7H16 forms ethane, C2H4 in this process. A shorter-chain
hydrocarbon has been formed from a longer-chain hydrocarbon.
Isomerisation: Process A. The molecular formula of pentane and its product from the process
is still the same, C5H12, although structural formula is different.
Process B is not cracking as the number of carbon atoms in the molecule is still the same after
the process.
Process B is not isomerisation either, as the molecular formula has changed from C6H14 to
C6H12. [4]
(1m for correctly identifying all processes, 1m per explanation for each process)
(ii) Cracking converts longer-chain hydrocarbons into shorter-chain hydrocarbons. There is a
greater demand for the more useful shorter-chain hydrocarbons, such as those used in petrol. [1]

24
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

GCE O-Level 2019

6092 Pure Chemistry Answers
Paper 1
Question Answer Remarks
241 A Alkaline gas, less dense than air
242 B Lead(II) nitrate also causes ppt formation with chloride ions
243 C Fractional distillation also works for immiscible liquids
244 D
245 D Proton also contributes to nucleon number
246 D
247 C
248 B
249 A
250 C 1 mol carbohydrate ≡ 6 mol of CO2

251 D
252 C 0.85 g of oxygen in XO2
253 B
254 C
255 A
256 D 1 g of H2 ≡ 0.5 mol of H2 so only 143 kJ of energy is produced.
257 D Number of moles of limiting reactant does not change.
258 B
259 B
260 A

261 C Calcium carbonate is insoluble.

262 A
263 C
264 C
265 A
266 B
267 B
268 A
269 A
270 A Recycling of iron uses less energy than extraction

271 D
272 A Each fraction is a mixture; the ratio of the compounds is not fixed.
Any compound with a negative enthalpy of combustion could be a
fuel.
273 C
274 A
275 B
276 B 1st and 3rd statement are correct
277 B Ethanol has only one functional group. Each monomer must have at
least two functional groups.
278 C
279 D LHS of ester structural formula refers to the part from carboxylic acid.

25
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
280 A

Paper 2
Qn Answer
A1 (a) D and G [1]
(b) A and E [1]
(c) C [1]
(d) G [1]
(e) A [1]

A2 (a) They all have 16 protons, hence they are of the same element. [1]
However, they have a different number of neutrons, isotope (1) has 13, (2) has 14, (3) has 15. [1]
(b) All three isotopes have 6 valence electrons, and will either gain or share 2 valence electrons. [1]
(c) (i) X: sulfur
Y: oxygen
Z: zinc
(ii) lowest melting point Y
X
highest melting point Z [1]

In Z, there are strong electrostatic forces of attraction between positive zinc ions and the sea of
electrons. These require the highest amount of thermal energy to overcome. [1]

In X, sulfur molecules (S8) contain a larger number of electrons than the oxygen molecules in Y.
Thus, in their respective simple molecular structures, the intermolecular forces of attraction are
stronger and require more thermal energy to overcome, in X than in Y. [1]
(iii) Z. Based on its proton number, it is an isotope of zinc, a metal. [1]
Z is also higher than hydrogen in the reactivity series.

A3 (a) Lead is above hydrogen in the reactivity series, while gold is below hydrogen. [1]
Only metals above hydrogen can react with acids. [1]
(b) Lead compounds react with nitric acid to form soluble lead(II) nitrate. [1]
However, lead(II) chloride and lead(II) sulfate are insoluble, and will form a coating that
prevents the remaining lead compound from reacting. [1]
(c) (i) Aqueous ammonia will react with these impurities to form white precipitates of lead(II)
hydroxide, zinc hydroxide and aluminium hydroxide. [1]
However, only the zinc hydroxide precipitate will dissolve in excess aqueous ammonia. [1]
(ii) Add aqueous sodium chloride (or any solution containing chloride ions). If Pb2+ ions are
present, a white precipitate is formed. If Al3+ ions are present, there is no visible reaction. [1]
(iii) Add aluminium foil and an excess of aqueous sodium hydroxide. (REJECT: aqueous ammonia) [1]
Warm the mixture gently. [1]
Gas evolved turns moist red litmus paper blue. [1]

A4 (a) NH3 (g) + HCl (g)  NH4Cl (s) (REJECT: NH3 (aq) / HCl (aq)) [2]
(b) (i) NH3 – 17; HCl – 36.5
[1]
(ii) No. As Mr increases, distance travelled decreases. [1]
Mr of HCl is about twice that of NH3 but HCl travels 2/3 the distance of NH3 (and not half). [1]
(c) Similarity: The distance travelled by each gas is still 60 cm for NH3 and 40 cm for HCl. [1]
Difference: The time taken for the white ring to be formed would be greater in experiment B. [1]
(REJECT: faster rate / NH3 still travels furthest / white ring forms nearer HCl)

A5 (a) Experiment with sodium Experiment using sulfur

Red litmus turns blue Red litmus remains red [1]
Sodium oxide dissolves in the litmus solution Sulfur dioxide dissolves in the litmus solution
to form an alkaline solution. to form an acidic solution. [2]
(b)
correct charges – 1m
everything else – 1m

[2]

26
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

(c) (i) Moles of Na = 0.50 / 23 = 0.02174 mol [1]

Moles of Na2O = 0.02174 / 2 = 0.01087 mol
Theoretical yield of Na2O = 0.01087 x (23 + 23 + 16) = 0.674 g [1]
(ii) Actual yield of Na2O = 94.82 – 94.50 = 0.32 g [1]
Percentage yield of Na2O = (0.32 / 0.674) x 100% = 47.5% [1]
(iii) The sodium used was impure, and the impurities burned in oxygen to form gaseous products
that escaped into the atmosphere. Thus, there was less sodium oxide formed than expected. [1]

A6 (a) Magnesium is more reactive than iron, and will preferentially react with oxygen and water. When
this happens, electrons are transferred from magnesium to the iron, through the wire. [1]
Mg  Mg2+ + 2 e– [1]
(REJECT: Magnesium rusts)
(b) (i) They provide a physical barrier that prevents the iron from coming into contact with [1]
oxygen and water. [1]
(ii) The oil and paint on the surface may be eroded over time by the water in the soil. This will
expose the iron underneath to oxygen and water, and rusting can occur. [1]

A7 (a) A higher voltage is produced if the metals are further apart [1]
in the reactivity series. [1]
(b) Copper / iron – any answer between 0.61 V and 1.09 V [1]
Silver / magnesium – any answer between 1.57 V and 4.00 V [1]

B8 (a) It is a negative ion that has an oxygen atom covalently bonded to an atom of another element. [1]
(b) (i) NH2Cl + NaOCl  NHCl2 + NaOH
NHCl2 + NaOCl  NCl3 + NaOH [1]
(ii) Sodium chlorate causes the oxidation state of N to increase from –1 in NH2Cl to +1 in NHCl2. [1]
It also causes causes the oxidation state of N to increase from +1 in NHCl2 to +3 in NCl3. [1]
Thus, it oxidises NH2Cl to NHCl2, and NHCl2 to NCl3. [1]
(c)
correct no. of shared electrons – 1m
everything else – 1m

[2]
(d) % mass of chlorate ions in calcium chlorate(I) = 100% x 2(16 + 35.5) / [40 + 2(16 + 35.5)]
= 72.0%
% mass of chlorate ions in sodium chlorate(I) = 100% x (16 + 35.5) / (23 + 16 + 35.5)
= 69.1% [3]
(e) CaO2
(f) Hypochlorite bleaches react to form compounds of nitrogen and chlorine, which are toxic.
Hydrogen peroxide bleaches react to form water, which is non-toxic. [1]
(REJECT: hypochlorite bleaches contain compounds of nitrogen and chlorine)

B9 (a) Stage 2: Carbon monoxide molecules adsorb on to the surface of the catalyst. [1]
Stage 3: Adsorbed oxygen atoms from Stage 1 form covalent bonds with the carbon atoms of
the adsorbed carbon monoxide molecules, forming adsorbed carbon dioxide. [1]
Stage 4: The adsorbed carbon dioxide is released from the surface of the catalyst. [1]
(b)
energy energy

O2 + 2 CO EA
EA
O2 + 2 CO
ΔH = -ve ΔH = -ve
2 CO2 2 CO2

progress of reaction progress of reaction

reaction without catalyst reaction with catalyst

Correct shape of graphs

EA labelled, reactant and product levels aligned across both graphs [1]
27
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
ΔH labelled, use of single-headed arrows, reactant and product labels [1]
[1]
(c) A catalyst provides an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy. [1]
More reacting particles have energy equal to or higher than the activation energy, and this
increases the rate of effective collisions. [1]

B10 (a) Any two: acidified potassium manganate(VII) / acidified potassium dichromate(VI) / atmospheric [2]
Either oxygen
(b) (i) propanol propanoic acid [1]

[1]

(ii)
[1]

(c) (i) CH3OH + CO  CH3COOH [1]

(ii) HI is the catalyst. [1]
It is chemically unchanged at the end of the process. [1]
(REJECT: it is not involved in the reaction / it remains unchanged throughout the reaction)
(d) (i) It will decrease the yield of ethanoic acid, as there will be less CO to carry out Stage 2 of the
reaction, and less H2O to carry out Stage 3 of the reaction. [1]
(ii) H2 can be used in hydrogen fuel cells / as a raw material to produce NH3 in the Haber process. [1]

B10 (a) Isomers 1 and 2 will cause Universal Indicator to change from green to orange, as both are weak
OR acids.
Isomer 3 will cause Universal Indicator to remain green, as it is an ester, and is hence neutral. [3]

colour change – 1m; explanations – 1m each

(b) propanoic acid methanol [1]

[2]

(c) (i) C H O
mass in g / 100 g 62.1 10.3 27.6
no. of moles 62.1 / 12 = 5.175 10.3 / 1 = 10.3 27.6 / 16 = 1.725 [1]
simplest ratio 5.175 / 1.725 = 3 10.3 / 1.725 = 6 1.725 / 1.725 = 1 [1]
empirical formula C3H6O [1]
(ii) Molecular formula is C6H12O2
(REJECT: C5H11COOH or any answer that shows structural formula)
*Please take note – TYS published by SAP gives C5H11COOH in their answer scheme, but the
question is asking for molecular formula.

28
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
GCE O-Level 2020
6092 Pure Chemistry Answers
Paper 1
Question Answer Remarks
281 D Stopwatch & gas syringe not needed; rate of reaction is irrelevant.
282 D
283 A
284 A
285 B
286 C
287 B
288 A
289 A
290 B

291 A
292 A Experiment 3 produces Br2 (g) at +ve electrode due to molten CaBr2.
293 C Electrons can only travel through electrical wires, not the electrolyte.
294 D
295 B Combustion reactions are always exothermic.
296 C
297 B
298 D Potassium iodide is oxidised to iodine, not reduced.
299 C
300 C

301 C BaSO4 is an insoluble salt; can only be prepared by precipitation.

302 B Equation C is not balanced.
303 B E.g. H2SO4 catalyst in esterification (not TM compound); PbI2 is a
yellow solid (not TM compound).
304 A
305 D
306 A X can be extracted by reduction of ore with carbon; all metals can
be extracted from ore via electrolysis.
307 B Formation of CO2 from its elements is also a redox reaction.
308 D
309 D While 2CO + O2  2CO2 is a combustion reaction (and also redox),
2NO + 2CO  2CO2 + N2 is not combustion (but is still redox).
310 B

311 D Methane’s melting points and boiling points are below 0 °C.
312 C
313 D
314 C
315 D
316 D Smaller hydrocarbons are more useful in industry than larger ones.
317 A
318 B
319 A
320 B

29
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

Paper 2
Qn Answer
A1 (a) (i) calcium hydroxide [1]
(ii) iron and hydrogen [1]
(iii) argon (note: A mixture of argon and oxygen is blown into molten steel in order to remove [1]
carbon. The amount of carbon removed is dependent on the argon : oxygen ratio.)
(iv) ethanol [1]
(v) graphite [1]
(vi) any two: graphite / hydrogen / ethanol [1]

(b) true false

Naphtha is used as a source of chemicals for the petrochemical industry. 
Paraffin is used as a fuel for aircraft.

(note: Paraffin is another term for kerosene)
Bitumen is used to make waxes. 
Gasoline is used to make lubricating oils for cars.  [2]

A2 (a) With higher temperatures, the kinetic energy of the N2 and O2 molecules increases, and [1]
frequency of effective collisions between the N2 and O2 molecules increases. [1]
At higher temperatures, more molecules also have energy greater than the minimum activation
energy of the reaction. [1]
(b) (i) equation 1: 2 NO + O2  2 NO2 [1]
equation 2: 2 H2O + 4 NO2 + O2  4 HNO3 [1]
(ii) Sulfur dioxide [1]

A3 (a) electrons anion OR negative ion

positive ions (allow cation) cation OR positive ion [2]
(b) Metals conduct electricity through the movement of the sea of delocalised electrons. [1]
Ionic compounds conduct electricity in the molten and aqueous states through the movement
of ions. [1]
(c) (i) Fe and C atoms in mild steel have different sizes. This disrupts the orderly layers of Fe atoms, [1]
and the layers are unable to slide over each other. [1]
(ii) Fe atoms have a larger atomic radius than C atoms. However, Fig. 3.3 shows the C atoms to
be larger than Fe atoms. [1]
Mild steel has at most 0.25% by mass of C. However, the diagram shows 4 C atoms and 24
Fe atoms, which gives 100(4 x 12)/(4 x 12 + 24 x 56) = 3.45% by mass of C. [1]

A4 (a) The set-up will use tin metal as positive electrode (connected to positive terminal of battery) [1]
and iron can as negative electrode (connected to negative terminal of battery) [1]
The electrolyte used is aqueous tin(II) nitrate (accept any other soluble tin salt). [1]
(b) Sn(s) + 2 H+(aq)  Sn2+(aq) + H2(g) (1m for equation, 1m for state symbols) [2]
(c) (i) Poly(ethene) does not react with dilute acids in food to produce toxic substances. [1]
(ii) Macromolecule: A very large molecule made up of many small repeating patterns of atoms,
joined together by covalent bonds. [1]
Addition polymerisation: It is the process where unsaturated molecules are joined to each other [1]
by covalent bonds to form a very large molecule, without losing any molecules or atoms. [1]

A5 (a) Carbon dioxide has a very low melting point, while silicon dioxide has a very high melting point. [1]
Weak forces of attraction between CO2 molecules require low amounts of thermal energy to [1]
overcome, while the network of many strong covalent bonds between Si and O atoms in the giant
(covalent) lattice structure requires high amounts of thermal energy to overcome. [1]
(b) acidic oxide: B2O3 / SiO2 / CO2 / NO2 / P2O5 / SO2
basic oxide: Li2O / Na2O / MgO (TAKE NOTE: BeO and Al2O3 are amphoteric) [1]
(c) (i)

[2]

(1m for charges; 1m for everything else) (1m for shared electrons; 1m for everything else)
30
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

(ii) MgO O2
Each Mg atom transfers 2 electrons to Each O atom shares 2 electrons with the
each O atom (forming Mg2+ and O2–) other O atom. [2]
1m for “transfer vs share”; 1m for no. of electrons transferred / shared

A6 (a) 2 M + H2  2 MH

(b) (i) The amount of metal hydride, in terms of moles, is [1]

[8.0 / (7 + 1)] = 1 mol of LiH
[24.0 / (23 + 1)] = 1 mol of NaH
[40.0 / (39 + 1)] = 1 mol of KH [1]
Information in table supports Beth’s statement, but not Jean’s.
(ii) Disagree with Ryan’s statement.
Moles of RbH formed = 2 x moles of H2 = 2 x (1 / 2)
= 1 mol [1]
Mass of RbH formed = 1 x (85 + 1) = 86.0 g [1]
(c) Potassium would give off more heat and light when heated in hydrogen. [1]
Potassium is more reactive than sodium, as it is lower in Group I. Reactivity increases down
Group I.
(d) Oxidation state of oxygen decreases from 0 in O2 to –2 in H2O. [1]
Oxidation state of sodium increases from 0 in Na to +1 in NaH. [1]

B7 (a) Maximum mass of NaCl dissolved in 100 cm3 = 30.0 g

Maximum mass of NaCl dissolved in 1 dm3 = 300 g
Moles of NaCl dissolved in 1 dm3 = 300 / (23 + 35.5) = 5.13 mol [1]
(accept all answers that assume 300 g ≤ maximum NaCl dissolved ≤ 390 g)
(b) Sodium chloride Calcium chloride
Both reduce freezing point to –20°C when 20 g of de-icer is added
Both reduce freezing point to a minimum before raising it, when gradually added
Only lowers freezing point to a minimum of Gives a much lower minimum freezing point
–20°C of –45°C
Unable to fully dissolve when 40 g added Raises freezing point by +20°C when 40 g [3]
added
1m per similarity / difference, must have at least 1 similarity and 1 difference.
(c) For de-icers what are more effective at lower temperatures, like MgCl2 and CaCl2, ΔHsol is
negative, and the de-icers are hygroscopic. [1]
Hygroscopicity causes the de-icer to absorb water vapour, to help it dissolve. [1]
Due to its negative ΔHsol, the de-icer gives off heat on dissolving and melts the surrounding ice. [1]
(d) (i)

energy energy
CH4N2O (aq)
CH4N2O (s) +15.0 kJ/mol CaCl2 (s)

–82.9 kJ/mol
CaCl2 (s)

progress of reaction progress of reaction

(ii) Urea has a low toxicity, while calcium chloride is harmful towards plants.
(e) Cl–. The de-icers that are harmful to plants are ionic chlorides, i.e. NaCl, CaCl2, MgCl2, KCl.

B8 (a) They all have the same empirical formula of C2H4O. [1]
(b) X Y Z

[3]

carboxyl functional group carboxyl functional group ester (linkage) functional group [2]

31
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
1m per correct structural formula
1m for two correct functional groups; 2m for three functional groups
(c) Effervescence occurs. [1]
The rate of reaction decreases over time as the number of reacting particles per unit volume
decreases. [1]

B9 (a) “Dot-and-cross” diagram shows that the atoms are all touching each other, and bond length
Either cannot be interpreted from the diagram. [1]
Ball and stick model shows that the atoms are all the same size, while Table 9.2 shows that H
atomic radius is much smaller than that of C and O. [1]
Ball and stick model also shows that bond lengths are about the same, while Table 9.1 shows
that C–H and O–H bonds are much shorter than C–C and C–O bonds. [1]
(b) (i) C2H6O [1]
(ii) The ratio of atoms C : H : O in ethanol is already in the simplest ratio. [1]
(c) (i) Moles of ethene = 1000 / 24 = 41.67 mol [1]
Theoretical moles of ethanol formed = 41.67 mol [1]
Theoretical mass of ethanol formed = 41.67 x [(2)(12) + (6)(1) + 16] = 1917 g [1]
Actual mass of ethanol formed = 5% x 1917 g = 95.9 g [1]
(ii) The unreacted ethene and steam are pumped back into the reactor for further reaction. [1]

B9 (a) (i) Mr of (NH4)2SO4 = (2)[14 + (4)(1)] + 32 + (4)(16) = 132

OR Mr of CaCO3 = 40 + 12 + (3)(16) = 100 [1]
Atom economy = [132 / (132 + 100)] x 100 = 56.9% [1]
(ii) In process 1, (NH4)2SO4 is the only product formed, hence its 100% atom economy. [1]
Process 2 forms CaCO3 as a side product, and thus its atom economy is less than 100%. [1]
(b) Moles of NH3 = 1000 / 24 = 41.67 mol [1]
Moles of H2SO4 required = 41.67 / 2 = 20.84 mol [1]
Mass of H2SO4 required = 20.84 x [(2)(1) + 32 + (4)(16)] = 2040 g [1]
(c) (i) Filter the mixture to obtain ammonium sulfate as the filtrate. [1]
Heat the filtrate until it is saturated, and leave it to cool and crystallise.
Filter the mixture to obtain ammonium sulfate crystals as residue.
Wash the crystals with a little distilled water and dry between sheets of filter paper. [1]
(allow evaporation to dryness of ammonium sulfate)
(ii) Some of the sulfate ions reacted with calcium ions to form insoluble calcium sulfate, and were
not converted to ammonium sulfate. This caused yield of ammonium sulfate to decrease. [1]

32
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
GCE O-Level 2021
6092 Pure Chemistry Answers
Paper 1
Question Answer Remarks
321 B A common incorrect choice was option A. These candidates did not
use the data to calculate the volume of gas produced in the
experiment (190 cm3), which is greater than the capacity of the gas
syringe in option A.
322 B
323 A
324 A
325 B
326 D A common incorrect choice was option C. These candidates did not
know that silver chloride is insoluble.
327 C This question was modified as follows:
In 3, replace “ethanol” with “phosphorus trichloride, PCl 3”.
328 C
329 C
330 C A common incorrect choice was option D. This will only allow the
empirical formula to be determined, however the molecular formula
is specified in the question.

331 D
332 A A common incorrect choice was option B. Candidates needed to
calculate a volume of gas produced in an experiment. These
candidates did not take the stoichiometry of the reaction into
account.
333 A
334 D This question was modified as follows:
At the end of the first sentence, write: Methane is CH4.
335 A A common incorrect choice was option D. These candidates did not
apply the idea of decreasing reagent concentration to its effect on
the rate of reaction.
336 B
337 D
338 C Options A and B were common incorrect choices. Candidates who
chose option A incorrectly thought that copper reacts with dilute
acid. Candidates who chose option B incorrectly thought that
lead(II) sulfate is soluble.
339 D A common incorrect choice was option C. These candidates did not
consider the 46 kJ / mol required for the reverse reaction.
340 A

341 B
342 D
343 C
344 B
345 C
346 C A common incorrect choice was option B. These candidates did not
appreciate that heating finishes once the reaction is complete.
347 C
348 A
349 D
350 B

33
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

351 B This question was modified as follows:

In option C, replace “ethanol” with “water”.
352 C Questions 32 to 40 were not assessed.
353 B
354 A
355 B
356 C
357 D
358 A
359 C
360 B

Paper 2
Qn Answer
A1 (a) (i) Potassium, chlorine [1]
(ii) chlorine [1]
(iii) copper [1]
(iv) aluminium [1]
(v) Chlorine, potassium [1]

(b) true false

The most unreactive group contains only non-metals. 
Melting point increases across Period 2. 
Atoms lose electrons more easily down Group I. 
The strongest non-meal oxidising agent is at the top of a group.  [3]

A2 (a) As crude oil is heated, it vaporises and rises up the fractionating column. [1]
Propane with low boiling point /small molecular mass condense near the top of the fractionating [1]
column.
Octane with high boiling point/ large molecular mass condense near the bottom. [1]
(b) They have similar boiling points. [1]
(c)
Compound Molecular formula Empirical formula

Propane C3H8 C3H8 [1]

Octane C8H18 C4H9 [1]
(d) (i) Energy released during bond formation in carbon dioxide and water is greater than the energy
absorbed during the breaking of C-H bonds in octane. [2]
(ii) No. of moles of octane = 50000/ (8 x 12 + 18) = 438.596 mol
Energy released = 438.596 x 5470 = 2,399,120.12 kJ [1]
No. of moles of butane = 2,399,120.12 / 2880 = 833.03 mol [1]
Mass of butane = 833.03 x (4 x 12 + 10) = 48315.74g = 48.3 kg (to 3 sf) [1]

34
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
A3 (a)
Substance Substance
Negative Positive formed at formed at
Experiment Electrolyte
electrode electrode negative positive
electrode electrode
Dilute aqueous sodium
1 Carbon Carbon Hydrogen Oxygen
chloride

Concentrated aqueous
2 Carbon Carbon Hydrogen Chlorine
sodium chloride

Dilute aqueous
3 Silver Silver Copper Oxygen
copper(II) sulfate

Dilute aqueous Copper(II)

4 Copper Copper Copper
copper(II) sulfate ion

(b) Carbon in experiment 1 is an inert electrode as it does not take part in any chemical reactions/
gets oxidised or reduced in the process. [1]

Copper in experiment 4 is an active electrode as it is oxidised to formed copper(II) ions during [1]
electrolysis.

(c) (i) Silver electrode will be coated with a pink / reddish-brown solid. [1]
(ii) 4OH‒  2H2O + O2 + 4e‒ [1]
(iii) Blue solution turns colourless. [1]
Copper(II) ions are preferentially discharged at the positive electrode, decreasing the
concentration of copper(II) ions in the electrolyte. [1]

A4 (a) Calcium silicate [1]

CaSiO3 [1]
(b) (i) Percentage composition of iron in Fe2O3 = [(56 x 2)/ (56 x 2 + 3 x 16)] x 100% = 70.0% [2]
Maximum mass of iron = 70% x 14 000 000 = 9 800 000 kg = 9 8000 ton [1]
(ii) Not all iron(III) oxide is reduced by carbon to form iron so yield is lower than expected. [1]
Iron ore is not entirely made up of iron(III) oxide and contains impurity silicon dioxide. [1]

(c) Nitrogen gas is from the hot air blasted into the furnace. As it does not take part in any chemical
reactions, it will be found in the furnace at the end and leaves it. [1]
Carbon dioxide is formed when coke burns in oxygen and when iron(III) oxide reacts with carbon
monoxide. Any excess carbon dioxide not reduced by coke will be released from furnace. [1]
Carbon monoxide is formed when carbon dioxide is reduced by coke. Any excess carbon
monoxide after reducing iron(III) oxide will leave the furnace
[1]

(d) Carbon is added to iron to formed steel which will be harder and stronger than pure iron. [1]
Too much carbon added will cause the layers of iron atom to have difficulty sliding pass one [1]
another and as a result will cause the high carbon steel to be brittle.

A5 (a)

[3]

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
(b) (i) For every mole of urea in the tank, 3 moles of gas is produced, hence increasing the pressure
in the tank. [1]
OR At high temperature, there will be increased volumes of ammonia and carbon dioxide
produced leading to increased pressure in the tanks.
(ii) Convert the oxides of nitrogen (NO in equation 2 and NO2 in equation 3) into nitrogen and water
which are harmless to the environment. [1]
When nitrogen oxides are removed, it reduces the possibility of forming acid rain that will erode
limestone buildings and kill aquatic plants and animals. [1]
Less photochemical smog will also form.
(iii) Use of DEF releases carbon dioxide which is a greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere. [1]
Hence, leading to global warming which melts ice caps and increases sea level. [1]

OR DEF does not remove other pollutants in the exhaust gas, such as carbon monoxide.
Hence, leading to global warming which melts ice caps and increases sea level.

(iv) 4(NH2)2CO + 6NO2  4CO2 + 7N2 + 12H2O [2]

(c) No. of moles of urea = 160 / (14 x 2 + 4 + 12 +16) = 2.667 mol [1]
Concentration = 2.667 / 0.5 = 5.33 mol/ dm3 (to 3 s.f.) [1]

B6 (a) (i) Hydrochloric acid and ethanoic acid fit the general formula HA.
When 1 molecule of hydrochloric acid is dissolved in water, it forms 1 H+ and 1 Cl‒ and when 1 [1]
molecule of ethanoic acid dissolves in water, it forms 1 H+ and 1 CH3CO2‒.
Sulfuric acid does not fit the general formula as it is dibasic and will form 2 H+ and 1 SO42‒ when [1]
dissolved in water.
(ii) M2CO3 + 2HA  2MA + H2O + CO2 [1]

(iii) 2CH3COOH + Ca  Ca(CH3CO2)2 + H2 [1]

If 2 = x, 2CH3COOH + Ca  Ca(CH3CO2)2 + 2/2 H2 [1]

(b) (i) This relationship is incorrect at acids of the same concentration did not have the same pH. [1]
0.01 mol/dm3 of hydrochloric acid had a pH of 2.0, while sulfuric acid if 0.01 mol/ dm3 of sulfuric [1]
cid has a pH of 1.7 and 0.01 mol/ dm3 of ethanoic acid only has a pH of 3.4.
(ii) Factors:
Concentration of hydrogen ions
Concentration of acid
Strength of acid

A strong acid of the same concentration has a lower pH. Hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid are [1]
strong acid while ethanoic acid is a weak acid. 0.01 mol/dm3 of hydrochloric and sulfuric acid
have a lower pH (2.0 and 1.7 respectively) compared to 0.01 mol/dm3 of ethanoic acid which
has a pH of 3.4. A stronger acid ionise fully in water and has a higher concentration of hydrogen
ions and thus a lower pH.

Higher the concentration of acid leads to higher concentration of hydrogen ions in water and [1]
thus the lower the pH. Hydrochloric acid of 0.01 mol/dm3 has a pH of 2.0, hydrochloric acid of
0.10 mol/dm3 has a pH of 1.0 while hydrochloric acid of 0.20 mol/dm3 of hydrochloric acid has
pH 0.7.

Higher concentration of hydrogen ions lead to lower pH. 0.0004 mol/dm3 of hydrogen ions in [1]
ethanoic acid has a pH 3.4 while 0.0013 mol/dm3 of hydrogen ions in ethanoic acid has a
pH 2.9.
(iii) Concentration of
Concentration of
Acid hydrogen ions in Predicted pH
acid in mol/dm3
solution in mol/dm3
Hydrochloric acid 0.04 0.04 1.4
Sulfuric acid 0.05 0.10 1.0

B7 (a) (i) Mr = 16 x 2 + 12 x 4 + 8 + 16 x 2 + 12 x 8 + 4 = 220

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

(ii)

(c) (i) The ends of the polymer comprise of -O- and a -C=O group indicating that the linkage between
the repeating unit is a or ester linkage.

(ii) Similarity: There is only one type of monomer in the condensation polymerisation of molecule C
and the addition polymerisation of thene. [1]

Difference:
There is water molecule being removed in the process of condensation polymerisation of [1]
molecule C while there are no atoms/ molecules removed when ethene molecules join together
during addition polymerisation..

Carbon-carbon double bonds are broken during addition polymerisation of ethene while a [1]
reaction between carboxyl and hydroxyl functional groups occur during condensation
polymerisation of molecule C.

B8 (a) Order of reactivity (increasing order): Si, C, Al

Either
Carbon reduces silicon by decreasing the oxidation state of silicon from +4 in SiO2 to 0 in Si.
Hence, carbon is more reactive than silicon. [1]
However, Aluminium is not reduced by carbon. Oxidation state of aluminium remains as +3 at
the end of the reaction. Hence, aluminium is more reactive than carbon. [1]

Or

Carbon is able to reduce silicon dioxide by removing oxygen away from it to form silicon.
Hence, carbon is more reactive than silicon.
Aluminium oxide is not reduced by carbon at the end of the reaction.
Aluminium is more reactive than carbon.
(b) Carbon monoxide has a simple covalent structure with molecules held together by weak Van [1]
der Waal’s forces of attraction. A small amount of energy is required to overcome the forces of
attraction and hence, hence the lowest melting and boiling points.
Silicon dioxide has a giant covalent structure and a large amount energy is required to
overcome the large network of covalent bonds between atoms. Hence, the melting and boiling [1]
points are high.
Aluminium oxide has a giant ionic lattice structure. The ions are held together by strong
electrostatic forces of attraction and these requires large amount of energy to overcome. Hence, [1]
melting and boiling points are high.

Carbon monoxide is made up of neutral molecules while silicon dioxide is made up of neutral
atoms and thus no mobile charge carrier to conduct electricity.
Aluminium oxide consists of mobile ions

(c) Mass of aluminium = 2.8 x 27 = 75.6 g

Percentage composition of aluminium in the alloy = 75.6 / 100 = 75.6%

Lowest percentage composition of aluminium in X = 100 – 15 – 7 = 78%

Lowest percentage composition of aluminium in Y = 100 – 19 – 8 = 73%

Highest percentage composition of aluminium in Y = 100 – 16 – 8 = 76% [3]

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
Lowest percentage composition of aluminium in Z = 100 – 24 – 6 = 70%
Highest percentage composition of aluminium in Z = 100 – 22 – 6 = 72 %

Since percentage composition of aluminium in alloy is in the range of percentage composition

of aluminium in Y, the alloy is Y

B8 (a) Experiment 2.
Or Other experiments have only 1 factor changed. Experiment 1 has a decrease in concentration
from 0.2 mol/ dm3 to 0.1 mol/ dm3. Experiment 2 has temperature increased from 20 oC to
40 oC. Experiment 3 has a catalyst added.
(b) In Experiment 1, a decrease in the concentration of iodide ions by half decreases the number of
iodide ions per unit volume by half. [1]
 Decrease frequency of collisions between iodide ions and other reacting particles
 Decrease frequency of effective collisions between iodide ions and other reacting [1]
particles
 Rate of reaction is slower
 Time taken for blue black colour approximately doubles.

In Experiment 3, temperature is increased (double).

 Increase the number of particles with energy greater than activation energy [1]
 Particles gain kinetic energy and move faster [1]
 Frequency of effective collisions between iodide ions and other reacting particles
increases
 Rate of reaction is faster
 Time taken for blue black colour decreases (by about half).

In Experiment 4, presence of a catalyst provides an alternative reaction pathway with lower

[1]
activation energy.
 Frequency of effective collisions between iodide ions and other reacting particles
increases
 Rate of reaction is faster
 Time taken for blue black colour decreases (by about half).

(c) No. of moles of H2O2 = 0.05 x 0.03 = 0.0015 mol [1]

In Experiment 1, no. of moles of iodide ions = 0.1 x 0.010 = 0.001 mol
Mole ratio of I- : H2O2 = 2 : 1 = 0.001 : 0.0005
I- is the limiting reaction [1]

In Experiment 2,3,4 , no. of moles of iodide ions = 0.2 x 0.010 = 0.002 mol
Mole ratio of I- : H2O2 = 2 : 1 = 0.002 : 0.001
I- is the limiting reaction [1]

38
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
GCE O-Level 2022
6092 Pure Chemistry Answers
Paper 1
Question Answer Remarks
361 A
362 A A common incorrect choice was option C. Students correctly
identified that statement 2 is correct but did not understand that it is
possible for two different compounds to have the same Rf value.
363 C
364 B
365 B
366 D Common incorrect choices were options A and B. Students either
just counted the number of chloride ions adjacent to a sodium ion or
counted the total number of chloride ions in the diagram. They did
not consider extending the diagram to the giant lattice
367 D
368 D
369 C
370 C .

371 C
372 B
373 D
374 D
375 A
376 D A common incorrect choice was option A. Students understood that
the activation energy is greater than the enthalpy change in an
endothermic reaction. However, they did not understand that
energy is released in bond formation when a reaction is either
endothermic or exothermic.
377 A
378 B
379 C
380 C

381 A
382 D A common incorrect choice was option C where students correctly
identified one product of the reaction, but it is the precipitate, not the
soluble sodium chloride in the filtrate.
383 B Common incorrect choices were options C and D. Students chose
compounds of copper over the relatively unreactive copper metal,
but those two combinations will not produce a reaction.
384 A
385 A
386 D A common incorrect choice was option A. Students chose an
explanation for the variable oxidation states which was incorrect.
387 D
388 D
389 A
390 B

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

391 C
392 C
393 C
394 D
395 B
396 B
397 B
398 B
399 A
400 A

Paper 2
Qn Answer
A1 (a) M [1]
(b) R [1]
(c) MQ3 [1]
(d) T [1]
(e) Z and Q [1]
(f) RQ4 [1]

A2 (a) Particles of gaseous perfume diffuse from a region of higher concentration to a region of [1]
lower concentration, until a uniform concentration is achieved. The net movement of the
perfume particles enable the perfume smell to be detected some distance away.
(b) The distance between liquid particles should be smaller than that of gaseous particles. [1]
The liquid particles should be more closely packed and disorderly arranged than that of
gaseous particles
The initial diagram should have the white particles in one section of the diagram and the black
particles in another section of the diagram. The second diagram should have the particles
equally spaced out in the box. [1]

(c) Difference in beakers A and B:

Distance travelled by Cu2+ ions will be larger in experiment B than in experiment A. [1]
At higher temperature, the ions have a larger kinetic energy which increases its rate of diffusion. [1]
Difference in beakers A and C:
Distance travelled by V2+ ions in experiment C is larger than that travelled by Cu2+ in [1]
experiment A.
Ar of V2+ is 51, which is smaller than that of Cu2+, which is 64. Ions with a smaller Ar diffuses [1]
faster that ions with a larger Ar.

A3 (a) [1]
compound homologous series

A aldehyde

B carboxylic acid

C alkene

D alcohol

(b) (i) compound test result [1]

B add Universal Indicator to aqueous B changes from green to orange
C add aqueous bromine changes from reddish-brown to
colourless
D add acidified aqueous potassium changes from purple to colourless
manganate (VII)

40
P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
(ii) C is carboxylic acids, which are weak acids when dissolved in water [1]
(iii) D is ethanol and it is oxidised to ethanoic acid by acidified aqueous potassium manganate (VII), [1]
the latter being an oxidising agent. [1]
(c) (i) C H O [3]
% by mass 40.0 6.7 53.3
relative atomic mass 12 1 16
no of mole 3.333 6.7 3.331
mole ratio 1 2 1

empirical formula: CH2O

(ii) compound: B [1]
reasoning: Molecular formula of B is C2H4O2 which is a multiple of the empirical formula
CH2O.

A4 (a) halogen colour and state at room temperature and pressure [2]
chlorine greenish-yellow gas
bromine reddish-brown liquid
iodine purplish-black solid
(b) (i) Chlorine displaces both bromine and iodine from their respective halide solutions showing [1]
that chlorine is more reactive than both bromine and iodine.
Bromine only displaces iodine from iodide solutions showing that bromine is more reactive
than iodine.
This shows that reactivity of halogens decreases down Group VII as chlorine is more reactive [1]
than bromine, and bromine is more reactive than iodine.

(ii) In A, halogen displacement reaction occurs. The resulting mixture contains the brown iodine [1]
solution and the colourless bromide ion solution. Hence the resultant solution is brown.
In B, there is no halogen displacement. The solution is brown due to the colour of iodine
solution.
(c) Fluorine has a tendency to gain electron to form fluoride ion. Since fluorine is reduced, it is an [1]
oxidising agent.
(d) (i) Chlorine atom acts a reactant in the first equation and is re-generated as a product in the [1]
second equation. Since overall chlorine atom is not changed in the reactions, chlorine acts as
a catalyst.
(ii) Chlorine atoms from the breakdown of CFC molecules react with ozone molecules in the [1]
stratosphere to form chlorine oxide and oxygen.
The chlorine oxide reacts with more ozone molecules to form chlorine atoms and oxygen. [1]
The reaction results in the depletion of ozone layer.

A5 (a) O2 (g) + 2H2 (g)  2H2O (l) [1]

(b) Mole of H2 = 500/24 000 =0.02083 mol [1]
Mole of O2 = 0.5 x mole of H2 = 0.5 x 0.02083 = 0.0104 mol
Volume of O2 = 0.0104 x 24 000 = 250 cm3
Minimum volume of air = (250/21) x 100 = 1190 cm3 (3sf) [1]

(c) Aqueous potassium hydroxide acts as an electrolyte as it contains mobile ions. This allows [1]
the charge/electrons to be carried from one electrode to another.
(d) [4]

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)

A6 (a) Heat the dilute aqueous ammonium sulfate to evaporate off some water to form the [1]
concentrated aqueous ammonium sulfate.
(b) (i) (NH4)2SO4 + O2  SO2 + 4H2O + N2 [2]
(ii) nitrogen: -3 in (NH4)2SO4 to 0 in N2 [1]
sulfur: +6 in (NH4)2SO4 to +4 in SO2 [1]
(c) manufacture of fertilisers [1]

(d) It does not follow ‘green chemistry’ principles for process 2 which requires a large amount of [1]
heat energy with high temperature of 1000 °C.
It does however follow ‘green chemistry’ as the raw material ammonium sulfate is a waste [1]
product of other chemicals and that process 1 and 2 by products, namely water and nitrogen, [1]
are harmless to the environment

B7 (a) Similarity: Both LDPE and LLDPE contains carbon-atoms chains that branch out from the [1]
main polymer/Both LDPE and LLDPE contain side chains.

Difference: LLDPE has shorter side chains attached to the main polymer chain while LDPE [1]
has longer side chains. / The side chains of LDPE are of various lengths while the side chains
of LLDPE are of the same length. / LDPE is formed from one type of monomer (ethene) while
LLDPE is formed from two or more different monomer.
(b) Empirical formula of LDPE is CH2.
Molar mass of CH2 repeat unit = 12 + 2(1) = 14 g/mol

Lower range of 4000 carbon atoms, [1]

Mass = 4000 x 14 = 56000 g/mol
Higher range of 40000 carbon atoms,
Mass = 40000 x 14 = 560000 g/mol
[1]
Mass of single molecule = 56000 / (6 x 1023) = 9.33 x 10-20 g

Mass of single molecule = 560000 / (6 x 1023) = 9.33 x 10-19 g [1]

Range between 9.33 x 10-20 g and 9.33 x 10-19 g

(c) (i) HDPE has a higher density from the other two polymers as there are more molecules per unit [1]
volume.
The long-chain molecules of HDPE has no side chains hence the molecules/polymer chains [1]
can be packed closer together.
(ii) LDPE has a lower softening temperature and it is not as strong and hard as the other 2 [1]
polymers.
It is therefore less useful and lower in demand. [1]
(d) (i)

[1]

(ii)

[2]

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
B8 (a) Lithium and beryllium have one and two valence electrons respectively hence they have [1]
the tendency to lose valence electrons to form positive ions.
As you moved across Period 2, the number of protons and valence electrons increases. [1]
Hence, the tendency to gain electrons to form negative ions or to share electrons to form
molecules increases. [1]
(b) Graphite has higher melting point than lithium than oxygen. Graphite has a giant covalent
structure with many strong covalent bonds between the carbon atoms. Large amount of
energy is needed to overcome the strong covalent bonds. Lithium has giant metallic lattice
structure with strong electrostatic forces of attraction between the positively-charge ions and
sea of delocalized electrons. Relatively large amount of energy is needed to overcome the
strong electrostatic forces of attraction. Oxygen has a simple molecular structure and weak
intermolecular forces of attraction. Little amount of energy is needed to overcome the weak [5]
forces of attraction between the molecules.
Both graphite and lithium have good electrical conductivity. In graphite, only 3 out of 4
valence electrons of a carbon atom are involved in bonding. This leaves each carbon atom
with 1 delocalised, mobile electron free for conducting electricity. In lithium, the presence of
the sea of delocalised, mobile electrons allows for electrical conductivity. Oxygen molecules
have no charge. There are no mobile charge carriers in oxygen hence oxygen has poor
electrical conductivity.

structure and bonding of lithium, graphite and oxygen – 1m each

compare melting point – 1m
compare electrical conductivity – 1m

B9 (a) In both experiment, hydrogen ion is preferentially discharged over sodium ion at the cathode. [1]
Either In both experiment, hydroxide ion is preferentially discharged at the anode. [1]
Experiment 1
2H+ + 2e-  H2 [1]
4OH–  O2 + 2H2O + 4e- [1]
Overall equation: 2H2 + O2  2H2O [1]

The number of batteries used in both experiments the same.

With every 4 moles of electrons flowing in the circuit, there will be 2 moles of hydrogen
collected at the cathode and 1 mole of oxygen collected at the anode. Hence, the volume of [1]
hydrogen collected at the cathode is twice the volume of oxygen collected at the anode.
OR
With every mole of electrons, the volume of hydrogen gas collected at the cathode is twice
the volume of oxygen collected at the anode.
(b) Hydrogen gas is still collected at the cathode but [1]
chlorine gas will be collected at the anode instead. [1]
(c) Experiment 2: Green [1]
Experiment 3: Violet

Hydroxide ion and hydrogen ions are discharged in experiment 2. Increase concentration of
sodium chloride in electrolyte. pH of electrolyte is neutral. [1]

Chloride ions are discharged and sodium hydroxide (or hydroxide ions) are left in the
electrolyte in experiment 3. pH of electrolyte increases. [1]

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P1 & P2 Answers (2012 - 2020)
B9 (a) In experiment 1, metal displacement reaction occurs. Zinc is more reactive than copper and
Or will displace copper from copper(II) sulfate solution.
The solution will turn from blue to colourless as the concentration of Cu2+ ions decreases. [1]
Zinc metal will become smaller and reddish-brown copper desposit will be formed. [1]
Experiment 1:
Zn  Zn2+ + 2e-
Cu2+ + 2e-  Cu

In experiment 2, electrolysis occurs. Cu2+ is preferentially discharged over H+ ions at the [1]
negative electrode while OH- is preferentially discharged over SO42- at the positive electrode.
Reddish-brown copper deposit will be formed at the negative electrode and bubbles of [1]
oxygen gas will be produced at the positive electrode. The solution will also turn from blue to
colourless.

Experiment 2: [1]
Negative electrode: Cu2+ + 2e-  Cu
Positive electrode: 4OH-  2H2O + O2 + 4e-
(b) Experiment 1: mass of solution will remains about the same. Cu2+ ions are displaced and
removed from the solution as copper deposit but Zn2+ is added into the solution.
[3]
Experiment 2: mass of the solution will decrease. Cu2+ and OH- ions are preferentially
discharged and removed from the electrolyte as copper deposit and oxygen.

Prediction for experiment 1 and 2 – 1m

Explanation – 1m each
(c) In experiment 3, the positive copper electrode will be oxidised to Cu2+ ions, which are [1]
released into the electrolyte.
No oxygen gas will be produced and the electrode will become smaller. The electrolyte will [1]
remain blue.

44