
HL Paper 2
Benzoic acid, C6H5COOH, is another derivative of benzene.
Identify the wavenumber of one peak in the IR spectrum of benzoic acid, using section 26 of the data booklet.
Identify the spectroscopic technique that is used to measure the bond lengths in solid benzoic acid.
Outline one piece of physical evidence for the structure of the benzene ring.
Draw the structure of the conjugate base of benzoic acid showing all the atoms and all the bonds.
Outline why both C to O bonds in the conjugate base are the same length and suggest a value for them. Use section 10 of the data booklet.
The pH of an aqueous solution of benzoic acid at 298 K is 2.95. Determine the concentration of hydroxide ions in the solution, using section 2 of the data booklet.
Formulate the equation for the complete combustion of benzoic acid in oxygen using only integer coefficients.
The combustion reaction in (f)(ii) can also be classed as redox. Identify the atom that is oxidized and the atom that is reduced.
Suggest how benzoic acid, Mr = 122.13, forms an apparent dimer, Mr = 244.26, when dissolved in a non-polar solvent such as hexane.
State the reagent used to convert benzoic acid to phenylmethanol (benzyl alcohol), C6H5CH2OH.
Markscheme
Any wavenumber in the following ranges:
2500−3000 «cm−1» [✔]
1700−1750 «cm−1» [✔]
2850−3090 «cm−1» [✔]
X-ray «crystallography/spectroscopy» [✔]
Any one of:
«regular» hexagon
OR
all «H–C–C/C-C-C» angles equal/120º [✔]
all C–C bond lengths equal/intermediate between double and single
OR
bond order 1.5 [✔]
[✔]
Note: Accept Kekulé structures.
Negative sign must be shown in correct position.
electrons delocalized «across the O–C–O system»
OR
resonance occurs [✔]
122 «pm» < C–O < 143 «pm» [✔]
Note: Accept “delocalized π-bond”.
Accept “bond intermediate between single and double bond” or “bond order 1.5” for M1.
Accept any answer in range 123 to 142 pm.
ALTERNATIVE 1:
[H+] «= 10−2.95» = 1.122 × 10−3 «mol dm−3» [✔]
«[OH−] = =» 8.91 × 10−12 «mol dm−3» [✔]
ALTERNATIVE 2:
pOH = «14 − 2.95 =» 11.05 [✔]
«[OH−] = 10−11.05 =» 8.91 × 10−12 «mol dm−3» [✔]
Note: Award [2] for correct final answer.
Accept other methods.
2C6H5COOH (s) + 15O2 (g) → 14CO2 (g) + 6H2O (l)
correct products [✔]
correct balancing [✔]
Oxidized:
C/carbon «in C6H5COOH»
AND
Reduced:
O/oxygen «in O2» [✔]
«intermolecular» hydrogen bonding [✔]
Note: Accept diagram showing hydrogen bonding.
lithium aluminium hydride/LiAlH4 [✔]
Examiners report
Most candidates could identify a wavenumber or range of wavenumbers in the IR spectrum of benzoic acid.
Less than half the candidates identified x-ray crystallography as a technique used to measure bond lengths. There were many stating IR spectroscopy and quite a few random guesses.
Again less than half the candidates could accurately give a physical piece of evidence for the structure of benzene. Many missed the mark by not being specific, stating ‘all bonds in benzene with same length’ rather than ‘all C-C bonds in benzene have the same length’.
Very poorly answered with only 1 in 5 getting this question correct. Many did not show all the bonds and all the atoms or either forgot or misplaced the negative sign on the conjugate base.
This question was a challenge. Candidates were not able to explain the intermediate bond length and the majority suggested the value of either the bond length of C to O single bond or double bond.
Generally well done with a few calculating the pOH rather than the concentration of hydroxide ion asked for.
Most earned at least one mark by correctly stating the products of the reaction.
Another question where not reading correctly was a concern. Instead of identifying the atom that is oxidized and the atom that is reduced, answers included formulas of molecules or the atoms were reversed for the redox processes.
The other question where only 10 % of the candidates earned a mark. Few identified hydrogen bonding as the reason for carboxylic acids forming dimers. There were many G2 forms stating that the use of the word “dimer” is not in the syllabus, however the candidates were given that a dimer has double the molar mass and the majority seemed to understand that the two molecules joined together somehow but could not identify hydrogen bonding as the cause.
Very few candidates answered this part correctly and scored the mark. Common answers were H2SO4, HCl & Sn, H2O2. In general, strongest candidates gained the mark.
A student performs a titration to determine the concentration of ethanoic acid, , in vinegar using potassium hydroxide.
The pH curve for the reaction is given.
Write a balanced equation for the reaction.
Identify the major species, other than water and potassium ions, at these points.
State a suitable indicator for this titration. Use section 22 of the data booklet
Suggest, giving a reason, which point on the curve is considered a buffer region.
State the expression for ethanoic acid.
Calculate the of the conjugate base of ethanoic acid using sections 2 and 21 of the data booklet.
In a titration, of vinegar required of potassium hydroxide to reach the end-point.
Calculate the concentration of ethanoic acid in the vinegar.
Potassium hydroxide solutions can react with carbon dioxide from the air. The solution was made one day prior to using it in the titration.
State the type of error that would result from the student’s approach.
Potassium hydroxide solutions can react with carbon dioxide from the air. The solution was made one day prior to using it in the titration.
Predict, giving a reason, the effect of this error on the calculated concentration of ethanoic acid in 5(e).
Markscheme
✔
Accept the ionic equation.
B: AND ✔
C: ✔
Accept names.
Accept for
phenolphthalein ✔
Accept “phenol red” or “bromothymol blue”.
B AND the region where small additions «of the base/ » result in little or no
change in
OR
B AND the flattest region of the curve «at intermediate /before equivalence
point »
OR
B AND half the volume needed to reach equivalence point
OR
B AND similar amounts of weak acid//ethanoic acid AND conjugate base//ethanoate ✔
Accept instead of .
✔
Accept answers between .
✔
✔
Award [2] for correct final answer.
systematic «error» ✔
would be higher ✔
actual is lower «than the value in calculation»
OR
larger volume of «solution» needed to neutralize the acid ✔
Accept partially neutralised by from air.
Examiners report
Most candidates could write a balanced neutralization equation.
Identifying species present at various points along a pH titration curve was one of the most poorly answered questions in the exam. Very few candidates realized there were two major species at point B even when they were able in general to realize that B was a buffer zone.
Almost all candidates could identify a suitable indicator to use in a titration of a weak acid with a strong base.
Most students could identify a buffer zone region in a titration but very few (50%) could coherently explain why.
Poorly answered with only 50% correctly writing a Ka expression. The major error was in candidates trying to calculate a Ka rather than write an expression for it.
Like with other calculations in this exam, the majority of candidates could correctly determine a concentration from titration data.
80% of candidates could identify the method used as a systematic error, with some stating human or random error.
Most candidates identified that the systematic error would result in the concentration of the alkali being lowered but then failed to propagate this through to the effect on the concentration of the acid.
Magnetite, Fe3O4, is another ore of iron that contains both Fe2+ and Fe3+.
Iron exists as several isotopes.
Deduce the ratio of Fe2+:Fe3+ in Fe3O4.
State the type of spectroscopy that could be used to determine their relative abundances.
State the number of protons, neutrons and electrons in each species.
Iron has a relatively small specific heat capacity; the temperature of a 50 g sample rises by 44.4°C when it absorbs 1 kJ of heat energy.
Determine the specific heat capacity of iron, in J g−1 K−1. Use section 1 of the data booklet.
A voltaic cell is set up between the Fe2+ (aq) | Fe (s) and Fe3+ (aq) | Fe2+ (aq) half-cells.
Deduce the equation and the cell potential of the spontaneous reaction. Use section 24 of the data booklet.
The figure shows an apparatus that could be used to electroplate iron with zinc. Label the figure with the required substances.
Outline why, unlike typical transition metals, zinc compounds are not coloured.
Transition metals like iron can form complex ions. Discuss the bonding between transition metals and their ligands in terms of acid-base theory.
Markscheme
1:2 ✔
Accept 2 Fe3+: 1 Fe2+
Do not accept 2:1 only
mass «spectroscopy»/MS ✔
Award [1 max] for 4 correct values.
specific heat capacity « = » = 0.45 «J g−1 K−1» ✔
Equation:
2Fe3+(aq) + Fe(s) → 3Fe2+(aq) ✔
Cell potential:
«+0.77 V − (−0.45 V) = +»1.22 «V» ✔
Do not accept reverse reaction or equilibrium arrow.
Do not accept negative value for M2.
left electrode/anode labelled zinc/Zn AND right electrode/cathode labelled iron/Fe ✔
electrolyte labelled as «aqueous» zinc salt/Zn2+ ✔
Accept an inert conductor for the anode.
Accept specific zinc salts such as ZnSO4.
« Zn2+» has a full d-shell
OR
does not form « ions with» an incomplete d-shell ✔
Do not accept “Zn is not a transition metal”.
Do not accept zinc atoms for zinc ions.
ligands donate pairs of electrons to metal ions
OR
forms coordinate covalent/dative bond✔
ligands are Lewis bases
AND
metal «ions» are Lewis acids ✔
Examiners report
The concentration of a solution of a weak acid, such as ethanedioic acid, can be determined
by titration with a standard solution of sodium hydroxide, NaOH (aq).
5.00 g of an impure sample of hydrated ethanedioic acid, (COOH)2•2H2O, was dissolved in water to make 1.00 dm3 of solution. 25.0 cm3 samples of this solution were titrated against a 0.100 mol dm-3 solution of sodium hydroxide using a suitable indicator.
(COOH)2 (aq) + 2NaOH (aq) → (COONa)2 (aq) + 2H2O (l)
The mean value of the titre was 14.0 cm3.
(i) Suggest a suitable indicator for this titration. Use section 22 of the data booklet.
(ii) Calculate the amount, in mol, of NaOH in 14.0 cm3 of 0.100 mol dm-3 solution.
(iii) Calculate the amount, in mol, of ethanedioic acid in each 25.0 cm3 sample.
(iv) Determine the percentage purity of the hydrated ethanedioic acid sample.
Draw the Lewis (electron dot) structure of the ethanedioate ion, –OOCCOO–.
Outline why all the C–O bond lengths in the ethanedioate ion are the same length and suggest a value for them. Use section 10 of the data booklet.
Explain how ethanedioate ions act as ligands.
Markscheme
i
phenolphthalein
OR
phenol red
ii
«n(NaOH) = dm3 × 0.100 mol dm-3 =» 1.40 × 10-3 «mol»
iii
« × 1.40 × 10-3 =» 7.00 × 10-4 «mol»
iv
ALTERNATIVE 1:
«mass of pure hydrated ethanedioic acid in each titration = 7.00 × 10-4 mol × 126.08 g mol-1 =» 0.0883 / 8.83 × 10-2 «g»
mass of sample in each titration = « × 5.00 g =» 0.125 «g»
«% purity = × 100 =» 70.6 «%»
ALTERNATIVE 2:
«mol of pure hydrated ethanedioic acid in 1 dm3 solution = 7.00 × 10-4 × =» 2.80 × 10-2 «mol»
«mass of pure hydrated ethanedioic acid in sample = 2.80 × 10-2 mol × 126.08 g mol-1 =» 3.53 «g»
«% purity = × 100 =» 70.6 «%»
ALTERNATIVE 3:
mol of hydrated ethanedioic acid (assuming sample to be pure) = = 0.03966 «mol»
actual amount of hydrated ethanedioic acid = «7.00 × 10-4 × =» 2.80 × 10-2 «mol»
«% purity = × 100 =» 70.6 «%»
Award suitable part marks for alternative methods.
Award [3] for correct final answer.
Award [2 max] for 50.4 % if anhydrous ethanedioic acid assumed.
Accept single negative charges on two O atoms singly bonded to C.
Do not accept resonance structures.
Allow any combination of dots/crosses or lines to represent electron pairs.
electrons delocalized «across the O–C–O system»
OR
resonance occurs
Accept delocalized π-bond(s).
No ECF from (d).
122 «pm» < C–O < 143 «pm»
Accept any answer in range 123 «pm» to 142 «pm».
Accept “bond intermediate between single and double bond” or “bond order 1.5”.
coordinate/dative/covalent bond from O to «transition» metal «ion»
OR
acts as a Lewis base/nucleophile
can occupy two positions
OR
provide two electron pairs from different «O» atoms
OR
form two «coordinate/dative/covalent» bonds «with the metal ion»
OR
chelate «metal/ion»
Examiners report
Analytical chemistry uses instruments to separate, identify, and quantify matter.
Nitric oxide reacts with chlorine.
2NO (g) + Cl2 (g) → 2NOCl (g)
The following experimental data were obtained at 101.3 kPa and 263 K.
Menthol is an organic compound containing carbon, hydrogen and oxygen.
Outline how this spectrum is related to the energy levels in the hydrogen atom.
A sample of magnesium has the following isotopic composition.
Calculate the relative atomic mass of magnesium based on this data, giving your answer to two decimal places.
Complete combustion of 0.1595 g of menthol produces 0.4490 g of carbon dioxide and 0.1840 g of water. Determine the empirical formula of the compound showing your working.
0.150 g sample of menthol, when vaporized, had a volume of 0.0337 dm3 at 150 °C and 100.2 kPa. Calculate its molar mass showing your working.
Determine the molecular formula of menthol using your answers from parts (d)(i) and (ii).
Deduce the order of reaction with respect to Cl2 and NO.
State the rate expression for the reaction.
Calculate the value of the rate constant at 263 K.
Markscheme
electron transfer/transition between high«er» energy level to low«er» energy level
OR
electron transitions into first energy level causes UV series
OR
transition into second energy level causes visible series
OR
transition into third energy level causes infrared series
Accept any of the points shown on a diagram.
24 x 0.786 + 25 x 0.101 + 26 x 0.113
24.33
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Award [0] for 24.31 with no working (data booklet value).
carbon: « =» 0.01020 «mol» / 0.1225 «g»
OR
hydrogen: « =» 0.02042 «mol» / 0.0206 «g»
oxygen: «0.1595 – (0.1225 + 0.0206)» = 0.0164 «g» / 0.001025 «mol»
empirical formula: C10H20O
Award [3] for correct final answer.
Do not award M3 for a hydrocarbon.
«temperature =» 423 K
OR
M
«M » 156 «g mol–1»
Award [1] for correct answer with no working shown.
Accept “pV = nRT AND n = ” for M1.
C10H20O
[1 Mark]
Cl2: first
NO: second
rate = k [NO]2 [Cl2]
180 / 1.80 x 102 «dm6 mol–2 min–1»
Examiners report
Urea, (H2N)2CO, is excreted by mammals and can be used as a fertilizer.
Urea can also be made by the direct combination of ammonia and carbon dioxide gases.
2NH3(g) + CO2(g) (H2N)2CO(g) + H2O(g) ΔH < 0
Calculate the percentage by mass of nitrogen in urea to two decimal places using section 6 of the data booklet.
Suggest how the percentage of nitrogen affects the cost of transport of fertilizers giving a reason.
The structural formula of urea is shown.
Predict the electron domain and molecular geometries at the nitrogen and carbon atoms, applying the VSEPR theory.
Urea can be made by reacting potassium cyanate, KNCO, with ammonium chloride, NH4Cl.
KNCO(aq) + NH4Cl(aq) → (H2N)2CO(aq) + KCl(aq)
Determine the maximum mass of urea that could be formed from 50.0 cm3 of 0.100 mol dm−3 potassium cyanate solution.
State the equilibrium constant expression, Kc.
Predict, with a reason, the effect on the equilibrium constant, Kc, when the temperature is increased.
Determine an approximate order of magnitude for Kc, using sections 1 and 2 of the data booklet. Assume ΔGΘ for the forward reaction is approximately +50 kJ at 298 K.
Suggest one reason why urea is a solid and ammonia a gas at room temperature.
Sketch two different hydrogen bonding interactions between ammonia and water.
The combustion of urea produces water, carbon dioxide and nitrogen.
Formulate a balanced equation for the reaction.
Calculate the maximum volume of CO2, in cm3, produced at STP by the combustion of 0.600 g of urea, using sections 2 and 6 of the data booklet.
Describe the bond formation when urea acts as a ligand in a transition metal complex ion.
The C–N bonds in urea are shorter than might be expected for a single C–N bond. Suggest, in terms of electrons, how this could occur.
The mass spectrum of urea is shown below.
Identify the species responsible for the peaks at m/z = 60 and 44.
The IR spectrum of urea is shown below.
Identify the bonds causing the absorptions at 3450 cm−1 and 1700 cm−1 using section 26 of the data booklet.
Predict the number of signals in the 1H NMR spectrum of urea.
Predict the splitting pattern of the 1H NMR spectrum of urea.
Outline why TMS (tetramethylsilane) may be added to the sample to carry out 1H NMR spectroscopy and why it is particularly suited to this role.
Markscheme
molar mass of urea «4 1.01 + 2 14.01 + 12.01 + 16.00» = 60.07 «g mol-1»
«% nitrogen = 100 =» 46.65 «%»
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Award [1 max] for final answer not to two decimal places.
[2 marks]
«cost» increases AND lower N% «means higher cost of transportation per unit of nitrogen»
OR
«cost» increases AND inefficient/too much/about half mass not nitrogen
Accept other reasonable explanations.
Do not accept answers referring to safety/explosions.
[1 mark]
Note: Urea’s structure is more complex than that predicted from VSEPR theory.
[3 marks]
n(KNCO) «= 0.0500 dm3 0.100 mol dm–3» = 5.00 10–3 «mol»
«mass of urea = 5.00 10–3 mol 60.07 g mol–1» = 0.300 «g»
Award [2] for correct final answer.
[2 marks]
[1 mark]
«Kc» decreases AND reaction is exothermic
OR
«Kc» decreases AND ΔH is negative
OR
«Kc» decreases AND reverse/endothermic reaction is favoured
[1 mark]
ln K « = » = –20
«Kc =» 2 10–9
OR
1.69 10–9
OR
10–9
Accept range of 20-20.2 for M1.
Award [2] for correct final answer.
[2 marks]
Any one of:
urea has greater molar mass
urea has greater electron density/greater London/dispersion
urea has more hydrogen bonding
urea is more polar/has greater dipole moment
Accept “urea has larger size/greater van der Waals forces”.
Do not accept “urea has greater intermolecular forces/IMF”.
[1 mark]
Award [1] for each correct interaction.
If lone pairs are shown on N or O, then the lone pair on N or one of the lone pairs on O MUST be involved in the H-bond.
Penalize solid line to represent H-bonding only once.
[2 marks]
2(H2N)2CO(s) + 3O2(g) → 4H2O(l) + 2CO2(g) + 2N2(g)
correct coefficients on LHS
correct coefficients on RHS
Accept (H2N)2CO(s) + O2(g) → 2H2O(l) + CO2(g) + N2(g).
Accept any correct ratio.
[2 marks]
«V = 22700 cm3 mol–1 =» 227 «cm3»
[1 mark]
lone/non-bonding electron pairs «on nitrogen/oxygen/ligand» given to/shared with metal ion
co-ordinate/dative/covalent bonds
[2 marks]
lone pairs on nitrogen atoms can be donated to/shared with C–N bond
OR
C–N bond partial double bond character
OR
delocalization «of electrons occurs across molecule»
OR
slight positive charge on C due to C=O polarity reduces C–N bond length
[1 mark]
60: CON2H4+
44: CONH2+
Accept “molecular ion”.
[2 marks]
3450 cm–1: N–H
1700 cm–1: C=O
Do not accept “O–H” for 3450 cm–1.
[2 marks]
1
[2 marks]
singlet
Accept “no splitting”.
[1 mark]
acts as internal standard
OR
acts as reference point
one strong signal
OR
12 H atoms in same environment
OR
signal is well away from other absorptions
Accept “inert” or “readily removed” or “non-toxic” for M1.
[2 marks]
Examiners report
This question is about sodium and its compounds.
The Born-Haber cycle for sodium oxide is shown (not to scale).
Sodium peroxide is used in diving apparatus to produce oxygen from carbon dioxide.
2Na2O2 (s) + 2CO2 (g) → 2Na2CO3 (s) + O2 (g)
Plot the relative values of the first four ionization energies of sodium.
Outline why the alkali metals (group 1) have similar chemical properties.
Describe the structure and bonding in solid sodium oxide.
Calculate values for the following changes using section 8 of the data booklet.
ΔHatomisation (Na) = 107 kJ mol−1
ΔHatomisation (O) = 249 kJ mol−1
O2(g) → O2- (g):
Na (s) → Na+ (g):
The standard enthalpy of formation of sodium oxide is −414 kJ mol−1. Determine the lattice enthalpy of sodium oxide, in kJ mol−1, using section 8 of the data booklet and your answers to (d)(i).
(If you did not get answers to (d)(i), use +850 kJ mol−1 and +600 kJ mol−1 respectively, but these are not the correct answers.)
Justify why K2O has a lower lattice enthalpy (absolute value) than Na2O.
Write equations for the separate reactions of solid sodium oxide and solid phosphorus(V) oxide with excess water and differentiate between the solutions formed.
Sodium oxide, Na2O:
Phosphorus(V) oxide, P4O10:
Differentiation:
Sodium peroxide, Na2O2, is formed by the reaction of sodium oxide with oxygen.
2Na2O (s) + O2 (g) → 2Na2O2 (s)
Calculate the percentage yield of sodium peroxide if 5.00g of sodium oxide produces 5.50g of sodium peroxide.
Determine the enthalpy change, ΔH, in kJ, for this reaction using data from the table and section 12 of the data booklet.
Outline why bond enthalpy values are not valid in calculations such as that in (g)(i).
An allotrope of molecular oxygen is ozone. Compare, giving a reason, the bond enthalpies of the O to O bonds in O2 and O3.
Outline why a real gas differs from ideal behaviour at low temperature and high pressure.
The reaction of sodium peroxide with excess water produces hydrogen peroxide and one other sodium compound. Suggest the formula of this compound.
State the oxidation number of carbon in sodium carbonate, Na2CO3.
Markscheme
[✔]
Notes: Accept curve showing general trend.
Award mark only if the energy difference between the first two points is larger than that between points 2/3 and 3/4.
same number of electrons in outer shell
OR
all are s1 [✔]
«3-D/giant» regularly repeating arrangement «of ions»
OR
lattice «of ions» [✔]
electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions
OR
electrostatic attraction between Na+ and O2− ions [✔]
Note: Do not accept “ionic” without description.
O2(g) → O2- (g)
«ΔHatomisation (O) + 1st EA + 2nd EA = 249 k Jmol−1 − 141 kJmol−1 + 753 kJmol−1 =» «+»861 «kJmol−1» [✔]
Na (s) → Na+ (g)
«ΔHatomisation (Na) + 1st IE = 107 kJmol−1 + 496 kJmol−1 =» «+»603 «kJmol−1» [✔]
lattice enthalpy = 861 «kJ mol−1» + 2 × 603 «kJ mol−1» −(−414 «kJ mol−1») [✔]
«= +» 2481 «kJ mol−1» [✔]
Note: Award [2] for correct final answer.
If given values are used:
M1: lattice enthalpy = 850 «kJ mol−1» +
2 × 600 «kJ mol−1» −(−414 «kJ mol−1»)
M2: «= +» 2464 «kJ mol−1»
K+ ion is larger than Na+
OR
smaller attractive force because of greater distance between ion «centres» [✔]
Sodium oxide:
Na2O(s) + H2O(l) → 2NaOH (aq) [✔]
Phosphorus(V) oxide:
P4O10 (s) + 6H2O(l) → 4H3PO4 (aq) [✔]
Differentiation:
NaOH/product of Na2O is alkaline/basic/pH > 7 AND H3PO4/product of P4O10 is acidic/pH < 7 [✔]
n(Na2O2) theoretical yield «= » = 0.0807/8.07 × 10−2 «mol»
OR
mass of Na2O2 theoretical yield «= × 77.98 gmol−1» = 6.291 «g» [✔]
% yield «= × 100» OR « × 100» = 87.4 «%» [✔]
Note: Award [2] for correct final answer.
∑ΔHf products = 2 × (−1130.7) / −2261.4 «kJ» [✔]
∑ΔHf reactants = 2 × (−510.9) + 2 × (−393.5) / −1808.8 «kJ» [✔]
ΔH = «∑ΔHf products − ∑ΔHf reactants = −2261.4 −(−1808.8) =» −452.6 «kJ» [✔]
Note: Award [3] for correct final answer.
Award [2 max] for “+ 452.6 «kJ»”.
only valid for covalent bonds
OR
only valid in gaseous state [✔]
bond in O3 has lower enthalpy AND bond order is 1.5 «not 2» [✔]
Note: Accept “bond in ozone is longer”.
Any one of:
finite volume of particles «requires adjustment to volume of gas» [✔]
short-range attractive forces «overcomes low kinetic energy» [✔]
NaOH [✔]
IV [✔]
Examiners report
Generally well done with a correct plot of ionization energies.
The majority answered correctly stating same number of valence electrons as the reason. Some candidates stated same size or similar ionization energy but the majority scored well.
Many candidates lost one or two marks for missing “electrostatic forces” between “oppositely charged ions”, or “lattice”. Some candidates’ answers referred to covalent bonds and shapes of molecules.
Good performance with typical error being in the calculation for the first equation, ½O2 (g) → O2− (g), where the value for the first electron affinity of oxygen was left out.
Many candidates earned some credit for ECF based on (d)(i).
Average performance with answers using atomic size rather than ionic size or making reference to electronegativities of K and Na.
An average of 1.1 out of 3 earned here. Many candidates could write a balanced equation for the reaction of sodium oxide with water but not phosphorus(V) oxide. Mediocre performance in identifying the acid/base nature of the solutions formed.
The majority earned one or two marks in finding a % yield.
The average was 2.2 out 3 for this question on enthalpy of formation. Enthalpy calculations were generally well done.
The majority of candidates referred to “bond enthalpy values are average”, rather than not valid for solids or only used for gases.
Some candidates recognized that ozone had a resonance structure but then only compared bond length between ozone and oxygen rather than bond enthalpy.
Few candidates could distinguish the cause for difference in behaviour between real and ideal gases at low temperature or high pressure. Many answers were based on increase in number of collisions or faster rate or movement of gas particles.
Na2O was a common formula in many candidates’ answers for the product of the reaction of sodium peroxide with water.
The vast majority of candidates could correctly state the oxidation number of carbon in sodium carbonate.
Copper forms two chlorides, copper(I) chloride and copper(II) chloride.
Two electrolysis cells were assembled using graphite electrodes and connected in series as shown.
Copper(I) chloride undergoes a disproportionation reaction, producing copper(II) chloride and copper.
2Cu+ (aq) → Cu (s) + Cu2+ (aq)
Dilute copper(II) chloride solution is light blue, while copper(I) chloride solution is colourless.
State the electron configuration of the Cu+ ion.
Copper(II) chloride is used as a catalyst in the production of chlorine from hydrogen chloride.
4HCl (g) + O2 (g) → 2Cl2 (g) + 2H2O (g)
Calculate the standard enthalpy change, ΔHθ, in kJ, for this reaction, using section 12 of the data booklet.
The diagram shows the Maxwell–Boltzmann distribution and potential energy profile for the reaction without a catalyst.
Annotate both charts to show the activation energy for the catalysed reaction, using the label Ea (cat).
Explain how the catalyst increases the rate of the reaction.
Solid copper(II) chloride absorbs moisture from the atmosphere to form a hydrate of formula CuCl2•H2O.
A student heated a sample of hydrated copper(II) chloride, in order to determine the value of . The following results were obtained:
Mass of crucible = 16.221 g
Initial mass of crucible and hydrated copper(II) chloride = 18.360 g
Final mass of crucible and anhydrous copper(II) chloride = 17.917 g
Determine the value of .
State how current is conducted through the wires and through the electrolyte.
Wires:
Electrolyte:
Write the half-equation for the formation of gas bubbles at electrode 1.
Bubbles of gas were also observed at another electrode. Identify the electrode and the gas.
Electrode number (on diagram):
Name of gas:
Deduce the half-equation for the formation of the gas identified in (c)(iii).
Determine the enthalpy of solution of copper(II) chloride, using data from sections 18 and 20 of the data booklet.
The enthalpy of hydration of the copper(II) ion is −2161 kJ mol−1.
Calculate the cell potential at 298 K for the disproportionation reaction, in V, using section 24 of the data booklet.
Comment on the spontaneity of the disproportionation reaction at 298 K.
Calculate the standard Gibbs free energy change, ΔGθ, to two significant figures, for the disproportionation at 298 K. Use your answer from (e)(i) and sections 1 and 2 of the data booklet.
Suggest, giving a reason, whether the entropy of the system increases or decreases during the disproportionation.
Deduce, giving a reason, the sign of the standard enthalpy change, ΔHθ, for the disproportionation reaction at 298 K.
Predict, giving a reason, the effect of increasing temperature on the stability of copper(I) chloride solution.
Describe how the blue colour is produced in the Cu(II) solution. Refer to section 17 of the data booklet.
Deduce why the Cu(I) solution is colourless.
When excess ammonia is added to copper(II) chloride solution, the dark blue complex ion, [Cu(NH3)4(H2O)2]2+, forms.
State the molecular geometry of this complex ion, and the bond angles within it.
Molecular geometry:
Bond angles:
Examine the relationship between the Brønsted–Lowry and Lewis definitions of a base, referring to the ligands in the complex ion [CuCl4]2−.
Markscheme
[Ar] 3d10
OR
1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d10 ✔
ΔHθ = ΣΔHθf (products) − ΣΔHθf (reactants) ✔
ΔHθ = 2(−241.8 «kJ mol−1») − 4(−92.3 «kJ mol−1») = −114.4 «kJ» ✔
NOTE: Award [2] for correct final answer.
Ea (cat) to the left of Ea ✔
peak lower AND Ea (cat) smaller ✔
«catalyst provides an» alternative pathway ✔
«with» lower Ea
OR
higher proportion of/more particles with «kinetic» E ≥ Ea(cat) «than Ea» ✔
mass of H2O = «18.360 g – 17.917 g =» 0.443 «g» AND mass of CuCl2 = «17.917 g – 16.221 g =» 1.696 «g» ✔
moles of H2O = «=» 0.0246 «mol»
OR
moles of CuCl2 =«= » 0.0126 «mol» ✔
«water : copper(II) chloride = 1.95 : 1»
« =» 2 ✔
NOTE: Accept « =» 1.95.
NOTE: Award [3] for correct final answer.
Wires:
«delocalized» electrons «flow» ✔
Electrolyte:
«mobile» ions «flow» ✔
2Cl− → Cl2 (g) + 2e−
OR
Cl− → Cl2 (g) + e− ✔
NOTE: Accept e for e−.
«electrode» 3 AND oxygen/O2 ✔
NOTE: Accept chlorine/Cl2.
2H2O (l) → 4H+ (aq) + O2 (g) + 4e– ✔
NOTE: Accept 2Cl– (aq) → Cl2 (g) + 2e–.
Accept 4OH− → 2H2O + O2 + 4e−
enthalpy of solution = lattice enthalpy + enthalpies of hydration «of Cu2+ and Cl−» ✔
«+2824 kJ mol–1 − 2161 kJ mol–1 − 2(359 kJ mol–1) =» −55 «kJ mol–1» ✔
NOTE: Accept enthalpy cycle.
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Eθ = «+0.52 – 0.15 = +» 0.37 «V» ✔
spontaneous AND Eθ positive ✔
ΔGθ = «−nFE = −1 mol × 96 500 C Mol–1 × 0.37 V=» −36 000 J/−36 kJ ✔
NOTE: Accept “−18 kJ mol–1 «per mole of Cu+»”.
Do not accept values of n other than 1.
Apply SF in this question.
Accept J/kJ or J mol−1/kJ mol−1 for units.
2 mol (aq) → 1 mol (aq) AND decreases ✔
NOTE: Accept “solid formed from aqueous solution AND decreases”.
Do not accept 2 mol → 1 mol without (aq).
ΔGθ < 0 AND ΔSθ < 0 AND ΔHθ < 0
OR
ΔGθ + TΔSθ < 0 AND ΔHθ < 0 ✔
TΔS more negative «reducing spontaneity» AND stability increases ✔
NOTE: Accept calculation showing non-spontaneity at 433 K.
«ligands cause» d-orbitals «to» split ✔
light absorbed as electrons transit to higher energy level «in d–d transitions»
OR
light absorbed as electrons promoted ✔
energy gap corresponds to «orange» light in visible region of spectrum ✔
colour observed is complementary ✔
full «3»d sub-level/orbitals
OR
no d–d transition possible «and therefore no colour» ✔
octahedral AND 90° «180° for axial» ✔
NOTE: Accept square-based bi-pyramid.
Any two of:
ligand/chloride ion Lewis base AND donates e-pair ✔
not Brønsted–Lowry base AND does not accept proton/H+ ✔
Lewis definition extends/broader than Brønsted–Lowry definition ✔
Examiners report
A student determined the percentage of the active ingredient magnesium hydroxide, Mg(OH)2, in a 1.24 g antacid tablet.
The antacid tablet was added to 50.00 cm3 of 0.100 mol dm−3 sulfuric acid, which was in excess.
Outline why repeating quantitative measurements is important.
Markscheme
to reduce random errors
OR
to increase precision
Accept “to ensure reliability”.
[1 mark]
Examiners report
Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) can be determined by the Winkler Method.
A 25.00 cm3 sample of water was treated according to the Winkler Method.
Step I: 2Mn2+ (aq) + O2 (g) + 4OH− (aq) → 2MnO2 (s) + 2H2O (l)
Step II: MnO2 (s) + 2I− (aq) + 4H+ (aq) → Mn2+ (aq) + I2 (aq) + 2H2O (l)
Step III: 2S2O32− (aq) + I2 (aq) → 2I− (aq) + S4O62− (aq)
The iodine produced was titrated with 37.50 cm3 of 5.000 × 10−4 mol dm−3 Na2S2O3.
Outline what is measured by BOD.
A student dissolved 0.1240 ± 0.0001 g of Na2S2O3 to make 1000.0 ± 0.4 cm3 of solution to use in the Winkler Method.
Determine the percentage uncertainty in the molar concentration.
Calculate the amount, in moles of Na2S2O3 used in the titration.
Deduce the mole ratio of O2 consumed in step I to S2O32− used in step III.
Calculate the concentration of dissolved oxygen, in mol dm−3, in the sample.
The three steps of the Winkler Method are redox reactions.
Deduce the reduction half-equation for step II.
Suggest a reason that the Winkler Method used to measure biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) must be done at constant temperature.
Markscheme
«amount of» oxygen used to decompose the organic matter in water ✔
«» 0.08 «%»
OR
«» 0.04 «%» ✔
«0.08 % + 0.04 % =» 0.12/0.1 «%» ✔
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Accept fractional uncertainties for M1, i.e., 0.0008 OR 0.0004.
«× 5.000 × 10−4 mol dm−3 =» 1.875 × 10−5 «mol» ✔
1:4 ✔
Accept “4 mol S2O32– :1 mol O2“, but not just 4:1.
«» 4.688 × 10−6 «mol» ✔
«» 1.875 × 10−4 «mol dm−3» ✔
Award [2] for correct final answer.
MnO2 (s) + 2e− + 4H+ (aq) → Mn2+ (aq) + 2H2O (l) ✔
rate of reaction of oxygen with impurities depends on temperature
OR
rate at which bacteria/organisms grow/respire depends on temperature ✔
Examiners report
Vanadium has a number of different oxidation states.
Electrode potentials for the reactions of vanadium and other species are shown below.
Determine the oxidation state of vanadium in each of the following species.
Identify, from the table, a non-vanadium species that can reduce VO2+(aq) to V3+(aq) but no further.
Identify, from the table, a non-vanadium species that could convert to V2+(aq).
Formulate an equation for the reaction between VO2+(aq) and V2+(aq) in acidic solution to form V3+(aq).
Comment on the spontaneity of this reaction by calculating a value for using the data given in (b) and in section 1 of the data booklet.
Markscheme
Do not penalize incorrect notation twice.
[2 marks]
H2SO3(aq)
OR
Pb(s)
[1 mark]
Zn(s)
[1 mark]
Accept equilibrium sign.
[1 mark]
spontaneous as is negative
Do not award M3 as a stand-alone answer.
Accept “spontaneous” for M3 if answer given for M2 is negative.
Accept “spontaneous as is positive” for M3.
[3 marks]
Examiners report
White phosphorus is an allotrope of phosphorus and exists as P4.
An equilibrium exists between PCl3 and PCl5.
PCl3 (g) + Cl2 (g) PCl5 (g)
Sketch the Lewis (electron dot) structure of the P4 molecule, containing only single bonds.
Write an equation for the reaction of white phosphorus (P4) with chlorine gas to form phosphorus trichloride (PCl3).
Deduce the electron domain and molecular geometry using VSEPR theory, and estimate the Cl–P–Cl bond angle in PCl3.
Outline the reason why PCl5 is a non-polar molecule, while PCl4F is polar.
Calculate the standard enthalpy change (ΔH⦵) for the forward reaction in kJ mol−1.
ΔH⦵f PCl3 (g) = −306.4 kJ mol−1
ΔH⦵f PCl5 (g) = −398.9 kJ mol−1
Calculate the entropy change, ΔS, in J K−1 mol−1, for this reaction.
Chemistry 2e, Chpt. 21 Nuclear Chemistry, Appendix G: Standard Thermodynamic Properties for Selected Substances https://openstax.org/books/chemistry-2e/pages/g-standard-thermodynamic-properties-for- selectedsubstances# page_667adccf-f900-4d86-a13d-409c014086ea © 1999-2021, Rice University. Except where otherwise noted, textbooks on this site are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. (CC BY 4.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/.
Calculate the Gibbs free energy change (ΔG), in kJ mol−1, for this reaction at 25 °C. Use section 1 of the data booklet.
If you did not obtain an answer in c(i) or c(ii) use −87.6 kJ mol−1 and −150.5 J mol−1 K−1 respectively, but these are not the correct answers.
Determine the equilibrium constant, K, for this reaction at 25 °C, referring to section 1 of the data booklet.
If you did not obtain an answer in (c)(iii), use ΔG = –43.5 kJ mol−1, but this is not the correct answer.
State the equilibrium constant expression, Kc, for this reaction.
State, with a reason, the effect of an increase in temperature on the position of this equilibrium.
Markscheme
Accept any diagram with each P joined to the other three.
Accept any combination of dots, crosses and lines.
P4 (s) + 6Cl2 (g) → 4PCl3 (l) ✔
Electron domain geometry: tetrahedral ✔
Molecular geometry: trigonal pyramidal ✔
Bond angle: 100«°» ✔
Accept any value or range within the range 91−108«°» for M3.
PCl5 is non-polar:
symmetrical
OR
dipoles cancel ✔
PCl4F is polar:
P–Cl has a different bond polarity than P–F ✔
non-symmetrical «dipoles»
OR
dipoles do not cancel ✔
Accept F more electronegative than/different electronegativity to Cl for M2.
«−398.9 kJ mol−1 − (−306.4 kJ mol−1) =» −92.5 «kJ mol−1» ✔
«ΔS = 364.5 J K–1 mol–1 – (311.7 J K–1 mol–1 + 223.0 J K–1 mol–1)=» –170.2 «J K–1 mol–1» ✔
«ΔS =» –0.1702 «kJ mol–1 K–1»
OR
298 «K» ✔
«ΔG = –92.5 kJ mol–1 – (298 K × –0.1702 kJ mol–1 K–1) =» –41.8 «kJ mol–1» ✔
Award [2] for correct final answer.
If –87.6 and -150.5 are used then –42.8.
«ΔG = –41.8 kJ mol–1 = × 298 K × lnK»
OR
«ΔG = –41800 J mol–1 = –8.31 J mol–1 K–1 × 298 K × lnK»
«lnK = =» 16.9 ✔
«K = e16.9 =» 2.19 × 107 ✔
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Accept range of 1.80 × 106–2.60 × 107.
If –43.5 is used then 4.25 × 107.
«Kc =» ✔
«shifts» left/towards reactants AND «forward reaction is» exothermic/ΔH is negative ✔
Examiners report
Phosphoric acid, H3PO4 can form three different salts depending on the extent of neutralisation by sodium hydroxide.
Formulate an equation for the reaction of one mole of phosphoric acid with one mole of sodium hydroxide.
Formulate two equations to show the amphiprotic nature of H2PO4−.
Calculate the concentration of H3PO4 if 25.00 cm3 is completely neutralised by the addition of 28.40 cm3 of 0.5000 mol dm−3 NaOH.
Outline the reasons that sodium hydroxide is considered a Brønsted–Lowry and Lewis base.
Markscheme
H3PO4 (aq) + NaOH (aq) → NaH2PO4 (aq) + H2O (l) ✔
Accept net ionic equation.
H2PO4− (aq) + H+ (aq) → H3PO4 (aq) ✔
H2PO4− (aq) + OH− (aq) → HPO42− (aq) + H2O (l) ✔
Accept reactions of H2PO4− with any acidic, basic or amphiprotic species, such as H3O+, NH3 or H2O.
Accept H2PO4− (aq) → HPO42− (aq) + H+ (aq) for M2.
«»
«» 0.004733 «mol» ✔
«» 0.1893 «mol dm−3» ✔
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Brønsted–Lowry base:
proton acceptor
AND
Lewis Base:
e– pair donor/nucleophile ✔
Examiners report
A 4.406 g sample of a compound containing only C, H and O was burnt in excess oxygen. 8.802 g of CO2 and 3.604 g of H2O were produced.
The following spectrums show the Infrared spectra of propan-1-ol, propanal and propanoic acid.
NIST Mass Spectrometry Data Center Collection © 2021 copyright by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce on behalf of the United States of America. All rights reserved. Available at: https://webbook.nist.gov/cgi/cbook.cgi?ID=C71238&Units=SI&Type=IRSPEC&Index=3#IR-SPEC [Accessed 6 May 2020]. Source adapted.
NIST Mass Spectrometry Data Center Collection © 2021 copyright by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce on behalf of the United States of America. Available at: https://webbook.nist.gov/cgi/cbook.cgi?ID=C79094&Units=SI&Mask=80#IR-Spec [Accessed 6 May 2020]. Source adapted.
NIST Mass Spectrometry Data Center Collection © 2021 copyright by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce on behalf of the United States of America. Available at: https://webbook.nist.gov/cgi/cbook.cgi?Name=propanal&Units=SI&cIR=on&cTZ=on#IRSpec [Accessed 6 May 2020]. Source adapted.
Determine the empirical formula of the compound using section 6 of the data booklet.
Determine the molecular formula of this compound if its molar mass is 88.12 g mol−1. If you did not obtain an answer in (a) use CS, but this is not the correct answer.
Identify each compound from the spectra given, use absorptions from the range of 1700 cm−1 to 3500 cm−1. Explain the reason for your choice, referring to section 26 of the data booklet.
Predict the number of 1H NMR signals, and splitting pattern of the –CH3 seen for propanone (CH3COCH3) and propanal (CH3CH2CHO).
Predict the fragment that is responsible for a m/z of 31 in the mass spectrum of propan‑1‑ol. Use section 28 of the data booklet.
Markscheme
«» 0.2000 «mol of C/CO2»
AND «» 0.2000 «mol of H2O»/0.4000 «mol of H»
OR
«» 2.402 «g of C»
OR
«» 0.404 «g of H» ✔
«4.406 g − 2.806 g» = 1.600 «g of O» ✔
«»
C2H4O ✔
Award [3] for correct final answer.
«» C4H8O2 ✔
C2S2 if CS used.
Award [1 max] for correctly identifying all 3 compounds without valid reasons given.
Accept specific values of wavenumbers within each range.
CH3O+ ✔
Accept any structure i.e. “CH2OH+”.
Examiners report
This reaction is used in the manufacture of sulfuric acid.
2SO2 (g) + O2 (g) 2SO3 (g) Kc = 280 at 1000 K
State why this equilibrium reaction is considered homogeneous.
Predict, giving your reason, the sign of the standard entropy change of the forward reaction.
Calculate the standard Gibbs free energy change, ΔGΘ, in kJ, for this reaction at 1000 K. Use sections 1 and 2 of the data booklet.
Predict, giving your reasons, whether the forward reaction is endothermic or exothermic. Use your answers to (b) and (c).
0.200 mol sulfur dioxide, 0.300 mol oxygen and 0.500 mol sulfur trioxide were mixed in a 1.00 dm3 flask at 1000 K.
Predict the direction of the reaction showing your working.
Markscheme
all «species» are in same phase ✔
Accept “all species are in same state”.
Accept “all species are gases”.
negative AND fewer moles/molecules «of gas» in the products ✔
ΔGΘ =«–RT ln Kc =» –8.31 J K–1 mol–1 × 1000 K × ln 280
OR
ΔGΘ = – 4.7 × 104 «J» ✔
«ΔGΘ =» – 47 «kJ» ✔
Award [2] for correct final answer.
ΔGΘ < 0/spontaneous AND ΔSΘ < 0/unfavourable ✔
exothermic AND ΔHΘ «must be» negative/favourable ✔
«reaction quotient/Q =» ✔
reaction quotient/Q/20.8/answer < Kc/280
OR
mixture needs more product for the number to equal Kc ✔
reaction proceeds to the right/products ✔
Do not award M3 without valid reasoning.
Examiners report
When heated in air, magnesium ribbon reacts with oxygen to form magnesium oxide.
The reaction in (a)(i) was carried out in a crucible with a lid and the following data was recorded:
Mass of crucible and lid = 47.372 ±0.001 g
Mass of crucible, lid and magnesium ribbon before heating = 53.726 ±0.001 g
Mass of crucible, lid and product after heating = 56.941 ±0.001 g
When magnesium is burnt in air, some of it reacts with nitrogen to form magnesium nitride according to the equation:
3 Mg (s) + N2 (g) → Mg3N2 (s)
The presence of magnesium nitride can be demonstrated by adding water to the product. It is hydrolysed to form magnesium hydroxide and ammonia.
Most nitride ions are 14N3–.
Write a balanced equation for the reaction that occurs.
Identify a metal, in the same period as magnesium, that does not form a basic oxide.
Calculate the amount of magnesium, in mol, that was used.
Determine the percentage uncertainty of the mass of product after heating.
Assume the reaction in (a)(i) is the only one occurring and it goes to completion, but some product has been lost from the crucible. Deduce the percentage yield of magnesium oxide in the crucible.
Evaluate whether this, rather than the loss of product, could explain the yield found in (b)(iii).
Suggest an explanation, other than product being lost from the crucible or reacting with nitrogen, that could explain the yield found in (b)(iii).
Calculate coefficients that balance the equation for the following reaction.
Ammonia is added to water that contains a few drops of an indicator. Identify an indicator that would change colour. Use sections 21 and 22 of the data booklet.
Determine the oxidation state of nitrogen in Mg3N2 and in NH3.
Deduce, giving reasons, whether the reaction of magnesium nitride with water is an acid–base reaction, a redox reaction, neither or both.
State the number of subatomic particles in this ion.
Some nitride ions are 15N3–. State the term that describes the relationship between 14N3– and 15N3–.
The nitride ion and the magnesium ion are isoelectronic (they have the same electron configuration). Determine, giving a reason, which has the greater ionic radius.
Suggest, giving a reason, whether magnesium or nitrogen would have the greater sixth ionization energy.
Suggest two reasons why atoms are no longer regarded as the indivisible units of matter.
State the types of bonding in magnesium, oxygen and magnesium oxide, and how the valence electrons produce these types of bonding.
Markscheme
2 Mg(s) + O2(g) → 2 MgO(s) ✔
Do not accept equilibrium arrows. Ignore state symbols
aluminium/Al ✔
mass of product ✔
✔
Award [2] for correct final answer
Accept 0.021%
✔
✔
Award «0.2614 mol x 40.31 g mol–1»
Accept alternative methods to arrive at the correct answer.
Accept final answers in the range 90.5-91.5%
[2] for correct final answer.
yes
AND
«each Mg combines with N, so» mass increase would be 14x which is less than expected increase of 16x
OR
3 mol Mg would form 101g of Mg3N2 but would form 3 x MgO = 121 g of MgO
OR
0.2614 mol forms 10.536 g of MgO, but would form 8.796 g of Mg3N2 ✔
Accept Yes AND “the mass of N/N2 that combines with each g/mole of Mg is lower than that of O/O2”
Accept YES AND “molar mass of nitrogen less than of oxygen”.
incomplete reaction
OR
Mg was partially oxidised already
OR
impurity present that evaporated/did not react ✔
Accept “crucible weighed before fully cooled”.
Accept answers relating to a higher atomic mass impurity consuming less O/O2.
Accept “non-stoichiometric compounds formed”.
Do not accept "human error", "wrongly calibrated balance" or other non-chemical reasons.
If answer to (b)(iii) is >100%, accept appropriate reasons, such as product absorbed moisture before being weighed.
«1» Mg3N2 (s) + 6 H2O (l) → 3 Mg(OH)2 (s) + 2 NH3 (aq) ✔
phenol red ✔
Accept bromothymol blue or phenolphthalein.
Mg3N2: -3
AND
NH3: -3 ✔
Do not accept 3 or 3-
Acid–base:
yes AND N3- accepts H+/donates electron pair«s»
OR
yes AND H2O loses H+ «to form OH-»/accepts electron pair«s» ✔
Redox:
no AND no oxidation states change ✔
Accept “yes AND proton transfer takes place”
Accept reference to the oxidation state of specific elements not changing.
Accept “not redox as no electrons gained/lost”.
Award [1 max] for Acid–base: yes AND Redox: no without correct reasons, if no other mark has been awarded
Protons: 7 AND Neutrons: 7 AND Electrons: 10 ✔
isotope«s» ✔
nitride AND smaller nuclear charge/number of protons/atomic number ✔
nitrogen AND electron lost from first «energy» level/s sub-level/s-orbital AND magnesium from p sub-level/p-orbital/second «energy» level
OR
nitrogen AND electron lost from lower level «than magnesium» ✔
Accept “nitrogen AND electron lost closer to the nucleus «than magnesium»”.
Any two of:
subatomic particles «discovered»
OR
particles smaller/with masses less than atoms «discovered»
OR
«existence of» isotopes «same number of protons, different number of neutrons» ✔
charged particles obtained from «neutral» atoms
OR
atoms can gain or lose electrons «and become charged» ✔
atom «discovered» to have structure ✔
fission
OR
atoms can be split ✔
Accept atoms can undergo fusion «to produce heavier atoms»
Accept specific examples of particles.
Award [2] for “atom shown to have a nucleus with electrons around it” as both M1 and M3.
Award [1] for all bonding types correct.
Award [1] for each correct description.
Apply ECF for M2 only once.
Examiners report
Done very well. However, it was disappointing to see the formula of oxygen molecule as O and the oxide as Mg2O and MgO2 at HL level.
Average performance; the question asked to identify a metal; however, answers included S, Si, P and even noble gases besides Be and Na. The only choice of aluminium; however, since its oxide is amphoteric, it could not be the answer in the minds of some.
Very good performance; some calculated the mass of oxygen instead of magnesium for the calculation of the amount, in mol, of magnesium. Others calculated the mass, but not the amount in mol as required.
Mediocre performance; instead of calculating percentage uncertainty, some calculated percentage difference.
Satisfactory performance; however, a good number could not answer the question correctly on determining the percentage yield.
Poorly done. The question asked to evaluate and explain but instead many answers simply agreed with the information provided instead of assessing its strength and limitation.
Mediocre performance; explaining the yield found was often a challenge by not recognizing that incomplete reaction or Mg partially oxidized or impurities present that evaporated or did not react would explain the yield.
Calculating coefficients that balance the given equation was done very well.
Well done; some chose bromocresol green or methyl red as the indicator that would change colour, instead of phenol red, bromothymol blue or phenolphthalein.
Good performance; however, surprising number of candidates could not determine one or both oxidation states correctly or wrote it as 3 or 3−, instead of −3.
Average performance; choosing the given reaction as an acid-base or redox reaction was not done well. Often answers were contradictory and the reasoning incorrect.
Stating the number of subatomic particles in a 14N3- was done very well. However, some answers showed a lack of understanding of how to calculate the number of relevant subatomic particles given formula of an ion with charge and mass number.
Exceptionally well done; A few candidates referred to isomers, rather than isotopes.
There was reference to nitrogen and magnesium, rather than nitride and magnesium ions. Also, instead identifying smaller nuclear charge in nitride ion, some referred to core electrons, Zeff, increased electron-electron repulsion or shielding.
Common error in suggesting nitrogen would have the greater sixth ionization energy was that for nitrogen, electron is lost from first energy level without making reference to magnesium losing it from second energy level.
Good performance; some teachers were concerned about the expected answers. However, generally, students were able to suggest two reasons why matter is divisible.
One teacher commented that not asking to describe bonding in terms of electrostatic attractions as in earlier papers would have been confusing and some did answer in terms of electrostatic forces of attractions involved. However, the question was clear in its expectation that the answer had to be in terms of how the valence electrons produce the three types of bonds and the overall performance was good. Some had difficulty identifying the bond type for Mg, O2 and MgO.
Chlorine undergoes many reactions.
of manganese(IV) oxide was added to of .
Chlorine gas reacts with water to produce hypochlorous acid and hydrochloric acid.
is a common chlorofluorocarbon, .
State the full electron configuration of the chlorine atom.
State, giving a reason, whether the chlorine atom or the chloride ion has a larger radius.
Outline why the chlorine atom has a smaller atomic radius than the sulfur atom.
The mass spectrum of chlorine is shown.
NIST Mass Spectrometry Data Center Collection © 2014 copyright by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce on behalf of the United States of America. All rights reserved.
Outline the reason for the two peaks at and .
Explain the presence and relative abundance of the peak at .
Calculate the amount, in , of manganese(IV) oxide added.
Determine the limiting reactant, showing your calculations.
Determine the excess amount, in , of the other reactant.
Calculate the volume of chlorine, in , produced if the reaction is conducted at standard temperature and pressure (STP). Use section 2 of the data booklet.
State the oxidation state of manganese in and .
Deduce, referring to oxidation states, whether is an oxidizing or reducing agent.
Hypochlorous acid is considered a weak acid. Outline what is meant by the term weak acid.
State the formula of the conjugate base of hypochlorous acid.
Calculate the concentration of in a solution with a .
State the type of reaction occurring when ethane reacts with chlorine to produce chloroethane.
Predict, giving a reason, whether ethane or chloroethane is more reactive.
Explain the mechanism of the reaction between chloroethane and aqueous sodium hydroxide, , using curly arrows to represent the movement of electron pairs.
Ethoxyethane (diethyl ether) can be used as a solvent for this conversion.
Draw the structural formula of ethoxyethane
Deduce the number of signals and chemical shifts with splitting patterns in the 1H NMR spectrum of ethoxyethane. Use section 27 of the data booklet.
Calculate the percentage by mass of chlorine in .
Comment on how international cooperation has contributed to the lowering of emissions responsible for ozone depletion.
s produce chlorine radicals. Write two successive propagation steps to show how chlorine radicals catalyse the depletion of ozone.
Markscheme
✔
Do not accept condensed electron configuration.
AND more «electron–electron» repulsion ✔
Accept AND has an extra electron.
has a greater nuclear charge/number of protons/ «causing a stronger pull on the outer electrons» ✔
same number of shells
OR
same «outer» energy level
OR
similar shielding ✔
«two major» isotopes «of atomic mass and » ✔
«diatomic» molecule composed of «two» chlorine-37 atoms ✔
chlorine-37 is the least abundant «isotope»
OR
low probability of two «isotopes» occurring in a molecule ✔
✔
✔
AND is the limiting reactant ✔
Accept other valid methods of determining the limiting reactant in M2.
✔
✔
Accept methods employing .
✔
✔
oxidizing agent AND oxidation state of changes from to /decreases ✔
partially dissociates/ionizes «in water» ✔
✔
✔
«free radical» substitution/ ✔
Do not accept electrophilic or nucleophilic substitution.
chloroethane AND C–Cl bond is weaker/ than C–H bond/
OR
chloroethane AND contains a polar bond ✔
Accept “chloroethane AND polar”.
curly arrow going from lone pair/negative charge on in −OH to ✔
curly arrow showing leaving ✔
representation of transition state showing negative charge, square brackets and partial bonds ✔
Accept with or without the lone pair.
Do not accept curly arrows originating on in .
Accept curly arrows in the transition state.
Do not penalize if and are not at 180°.
Do not award M3 if bond is represented.
/ ✔
Accept .
2 «signals» ✔
0.9−1.0 AND triplet ✔
3.3−3.7 AND quartet ✔
Accept any values in the ranges.
Award [1] for two correct chemical shifts or two correct splitting patterns.
✔
✔
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Any of:
research «collaboration» for alternative technologies «to replace s»
OR
technologies «developed»/data could be shared
OR
political pressure/Montreal Protocol/governments passing legislations ✔
Do not accept just “collaboration”.
Do not accept any reference to as greenhouse gas or product of fossil fuel combustion.
Accept reference to specific measures, such as agreement on banning use/manufacture of s.
✔
OR
✔
Penalize missing/incorrect radical dot (∙) once only.
Examiners report
Well answered question with 90% of candidates correctly identifying the complete electron configuration for chlorine.
Most candidates could correctly explain the relative sizes of chlorine atom and chloride ion.
Fairly well answered though some candidates missed M2 for not recognizing the same number of shells affected.
More than 80% could identify that the two peaks in the MS of chlorine are due to different isotopes.
Not well answered. Some candidates were able to identify m/z 74 being due to the m/z of two Cl-37 atoms, however fewer candidates were able to explain the relative abundance of the isotope.
Stoichiometric calculations were generally well done and over 90% could calculate mol from a given mass.
90% of candidates earned full marks on this 2-mark question involving finding a limiting reactant.
Surprisingly, quite a number of candidates struggled with the quantity of excess reactant despite correctly identifying limiting reactant previously.
Most candidates could find the volume of gas produced in a reaction under standard conditions.
More than 90% could identify the oxidation number of manganese in both MnO2 and MnCl2.
Most candidates stated that MnO2 is an oxidizing agent in the reaction but many did not get the mark because there was no reference to oxidation states.
Another well answered 1-mark question where candidates correctly identified a weak acid as an acid which partially dissociates in water.
Roughly ⅓ of the candidates failed to identify the conjugate base, perhaps distracted by the fact it was not contained in the equation given.
Vast majority of candidates could calculate the concentration of H+ (aq) in a HClO (aq) solution with a pH =3.61.
Many identified the reaction of chlorine with ethane as free-radical substitution, or just substitution, with some erroneously stating nucleophilic or electrophilic substitution.
The underlying reasons for the relative reactivity of ethane and chloroethane were not very well known with a few giving erroneous reasons and some stating ethane more reactive.
Few earned full marks for the curly arrow mechanism of the reaction between sodium hydroxide and chloroethane. Mistakes being careless curly arrow drawing, inappropriate –OH notation, curly arrows from the hydrogen or from the carbon to the C–Cl bond, or a method that missed the transition state.
Approximately 60% could draw ethoxyethane however many demonstrated little knowledge of structure of an ether molecule.
A poorly answered question with some getting full marks on this 1HNMR spectrum of ethoxyethane question. Very few could identify all 3 of number of signals, chemical shift, and splitting pattern.
Another good example of candidates being well rehearsed in calculations with 90% earning 2/2 on this question of calculation percentage by mass composition.
Somewhat disappointing answers on this question about how international cooperation has contributed to the lowering of CFC emissions. Many gave vague answers and some referred to carbon emissions and global warming.
Few could construct the propagation equations showing how CFCs affect ozone, and many lost marks by failing to identify ClO· as a radical.
Magnesium is a group 2 metal which exists as a number of isotopes and forms many compounds.
Magnesium ions produce no emission or absorption lines in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Suggest why most magnesium compounds tested in a school laboratory show traces of yellow in the flame.
(i) Explain the convergence of lines in a hydrogen emission spectrum.
(ii) State what can be determined from the frequency of the convergence limit.
Magnesium chloride can be electrolysed.
(i) Deduce the half-equations for the reactions at each electrode when molten magnesium chloride is electrolysed, showing the state symbols of the products. The melting points of magnesium and magnesium chloride are 922K and 987K respectively.
(ii) Identify the type of reaction occurring at the cathode (negative electrode).
(iii) State the products when a very dilute aqueous solution of magnesium chloride is electrolysed.
Standard electrode potentials are measured relative to the standard hydrogen electrode. Describe a standard hydrogen electrode.
A magnesium half-cell, Mg(s)/Mg2+(aq), can be connected to a copper half-cell, Cu(s)/Cu2+(aq).
(i) Formulate an equation for the spontaneous reaction that occurs when the circuit is completed.
(ii) Determine the standard cell potential, in V, for the cell. Refer to section 24 of the data booklet.
(iii) Predict, giving a reason, the change in cell potential when the concentration of copper ions increases.
Markscheme
contamination with sodium/other «compounds»
i
energy levels are closer together at high energy / high frequency / short wavelength
ii
ionisation energy
i)
Anode (positive electrode):
2Cl– → Cl2 (g) + 2e–
Cathode (negative electrode):
Mg2+ + 2e– → Mg (l)
Penalize missing/incorrect state symbols at Cl2 and Mg once only.
Award [1 max] if equations are at wrong electrodes.
Accept Mg (g).
ii)
reduction
iii)
Anode (positive electrode):
oxygen/O2
OR
hydogen ion/proton/H+ AND oxygen/O2
Cathode (negative electrode):
hydrogen/H2
OR
hydroxide «ion»/OH– AND hydrogen/H2
Award [1 max] if correct products given at wrong electrodes.
Any two of:
«inert» Pt electrode
OR
platinum black conductor
1 mol dm–3 H+ (aq)
H2 (g) at 100 kPa
Accept 1 atm H2 (g).
Accept 1 bar H2 (g)
Accept a labelled diagram.
Ignore temperature if it is specified.
i
Mg(s) + Cu2+ (aq) → Mg2+ (aq) + Cu(s)
ii
«+0.34V – (–2.37V) = +»2.71 «V»
iii
cell potential increases
reaction «in Q4(k)(i)» moves to the right
OR
potential of the copper half-cell increases/becomes more positive
Accept correct answers based on the Nernst equation
Examiners report
This question is about the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.
Hydrogen peroxide decomposes to water and oxygen when a catalyst such as potassium iodide, KI, is added.
2H2O2 (aq) O2 (g) + 2H2O (l)
Suggest why many chemicals, including hydrogen peroxide, are kept in brown bottles instead of clear colourless bottles.
In a laboratory experiment solutions of potassium iodide and hydrogen peroxide were mixed and the volume of oxygen generated was recorded. The volume was adjusted to 0 at t = 0.
The data for the first trial is given below.
Plot a graph on the axes below and from it determine the average rate of
formation of oxygen gas in cm3 O2 (g) s−1.
Average rate of reaction:
Two more trials (2 and 3) were carried out. The results are given below.
Determine the rate equation for the reaction and its overall order, using your answer from (b)(i).
Rate equation:
Overall order:
Additional experiments were carried out at an elevated temperature. On the axes below, sketch Maxwell–Boltzmann energy distribution curves at two temperatures T1 and T2, where T2 > T1.
Apart from a greater frequency of collisions, explain, by annotating your graphs in (b)(iii), why an increased temperature causes the rate of reaction to increase.
MnO2 is another possible catalyst for the reaction. State the IUPAC name for MnO2.
Comment on why peracetic acid, CH3COOOH, is always sold in solution with ethanoic acid and hydrogen peroxide.
H2O2 (aq) + CH3COOH (aq) ⇌ CH3COOOH (aq) + H2O (l)
Sodium percarbonate, 2Na2CO3•3H2O2, is an adduct of sodium carbonate and hydrogen peroxide and is used as a cleaning agent.
Mr (2Na2CO3•3H2O2) = 314.04
Calculate the percentage by mass of hydrogen peroxide in sodium percarbonate, giving your answer to two decimal places.
Markscheme
decomposes in light [✔]
Note: Accept “sensitive to light”.
points correctly plotted [✔]
best fit line AND extended through (to) the origin [✔]
Average rate of reaction:
«slope (gradient) of line =» 0.022 «cm3 O2 (g) s−1» [✔]
Note: Accept range 0.020–0.024cm3 O2 (g) s−1.
Rate equation:
Rate = k[H2O2] × [KI] [✔]
Overall order:
2 [✔]
Note: Rate constant must be included.
peak of T2 to right of AND lower than T1 [✔]
lines begin at origin AND T2 must finish above T1 [✔]
Ea marked on graph [✔]
explanation in terms of more “particles” with E ≥ Ea
OR
greater area under curve to the right of Ea in T2 [✔]
manganese(IV) oxide
OR
manganese dioxide [✔]
Note: Accept “manganese(IV) dioxide”.
moves «position of» equilibrium to right/products [✔]
Note: Accept “reactants are always present as the reaction is in equilibrium”.
M( H2O2) «= 2 × 1.01 + 2 × 16.00» = 34.02 «g» [✔]
«% H2O2 = 3 × × 100 =» 32.50 «%» [✔]
Note: Award [2] for correct final answer.
Examiners report
There were a couple of comments claiming that this NOS question on “why to store hydrogen peroxide in brown bottles” is not the syllabus. Most candidates were quite capable of reasoning this out.
Most candidates could plot a best fit line and find the slope to calculate an average rate of reaction.
Good performance but with answers that either typically included only [H2O2] with first or second order equation or even suggesting zero order rate equation.
Fair performance; errors including not starting the two curves at the origin, drawing peak for T2 above T1, T2 finishing below T1 or curves crossing the x-axis.
The majority of candidates earned at least one mark, many both marks. Errors included not annotating the graph with Ea and referring to increase of kinetic energy as reason for higher rate at T2.
A well answered question. Very few candidates had problem with nomenclature.
One teacher suggested that “stored” would have been better than “sold” for this question. There were a lot of irrelevant answers with many believing the back reaction was an acid dissociation.
It is recommended that candidates use the relative atomic masses given in the periodic table.
Hydrogen peroxide can react with methane and oxygen to form methanol. This reaction can occur below 50°C if a gold nanoparticle catalyst is used.
Now consider the second stage of the reaction.
CO (g) + 2H2 (g) CH3OH (l) ΔH⦵ = –129 kJ
Hydrogen peroxide can react with methane and oxygen to form methanol. This reaction can occur below 50°C if a gold nanoparticle catalyst is used.
Methanol is usually manufactured from methane in a two-stage process.
CH4 (g) + H2O (g) CO (g) + 3H2 (g)
CO (g) + 2H2 (g) CH3OH (l)
Consider the first stage of the reaction.
CH4 (g) + H2O (g) CO (g) + 3H2 (g)
The diagram shows the Maxwell-Boltzmann curve for the uncatalyzed reaction.
Draw a distribution curve at a lower temperature (T2) and show on the diagram how the addition of a catalyst enables the reaction to take place more rapidly than at T1.
The hydrogen peroxide could cause further oxidation of the methanol. Suggest a possible oxidation product.
Determine the overall equation for the production of methanol.
8.00 g of methane is completely converted to methanol. Calculate, to three significant figures, the final volume of hydrogen at STP, in dm3. Use sections 2 and 6 of the data booklet.
Determine the enthalpy change, ΔH, in kJ. Use section 11 of the data booklet.
Bond enthalpy of CO = 1077 kJ mol−1.
State one reason why you would expect the value of ΔH calculated from the values, given in section 12 of data booklet, to differ from your answer to (d)(i).
State the expression for Kc for this stage of the reaction.
State and explain the effect of increasing temperature on the value of Kc.
The equilibrium constant, Kc, has a value of 1.01 at 298 K.
Calculate ΔG⦵, in kJ mol–1, for this reaction. Use sections 1 and 2 of the data booklet.
Calculate a value for the entropy change, ΔS⦵, in J K–1 mol–1 at 298 K. Use your answers to (e)(i) and section 1 of the data booklet.
If you did not get answers to (e)(i) use –1 kJ, but this is not the correct answer.
Justify the sign of ΔS with reference to the equation.
Predict, giving a reason, how a change in temperature from 298 K to 273 K would affect the spontaneity of the reaction.
Markscheme
curve higher AND to left of T1 ✔
new/catalysed Ea marked AND to the left of Ea of curve T1 ✔
Do not penalize curve missing a label, not passing exactly through the origin, or crossing x-axis after Ea.
Do not award M1 if curve drawn shows significantly more/less molecules/greater/smaller area under curve than curve 1.
Accept Ea drawn to T1 instead of curve drawn as long as to left of marked Ea.
methanoic acid/HCOOH/CHOOH
OR
methanal/HCHO ✔
Accept “carbon dioxide/CO2”.
CH4(g) + H2O(g) CH3OH(l) + H2(g) ✔
Accept arrow instead of equilibrium sign.
amount of methane = « = » 0.498 «mol» ✔
amount of hydrogen = amount of methane / 0.498 «mol» ✔
volume of hydrogen = «0.498 mol × 22.7 dm3 mol−1 = » 11.3 «dm3» ✔
Award [3] for final correct answer.
Award [2 max] for 11.4 «dm3 due to rounding of mass to 16/moles to 0.5. »
Σbonds broken = 4 × 414 «kJ» + 2 × 463 «kJ» / 2582 «kJ» ✔
Σbonds formed = 1077 «kJ» + 3 × 436 «kJ» / 2385 «kJ» ✔
ΔH «= Σbonds broken − Σbonds formed =( 2582 kJ − 2385 kJ)» = «+»197«kJ» ✔
Award [3] for final correct answer.
Award [2 Max] for final answer of −197 «kJ»
bond energies are average values «not specific to the compound» ✔
✔
Kc increases AND «forward» reaction endothermic ✔
«ΔG⦵ = − RT lnKc»
ΔG⦵ = − 8.31 «J K−1 mol−1» × 298 «K» × ln (1.01) / −24.6 «J mol−1» ✔
= −0.0246 «kJ mol–1» ✔
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Award [1 max] for +0.0246 «kJ mol–1».
«ΔG⦵ = ΔH⦵ − TΔS⦵»
ΔG⦵ = −129 «kJ mol–1» − (298 «K» × ΔS) = −0.0246 «kJ mol–1» ✔
ΔS⦵ = « = » −433 «J K–1 mol–1» ✔
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Award [1 max] for “−0.433 «kJ K–1 mol–1»”.
Award [1 max] for “433” or “+433” «J K–1 mol–1».
Award [2] for −430 «J K–1 mol–1» (result from given values).
«negative as» product is liquid and reactants gases
OR
fewer moles of gas in product ✔
reaction «more» spontaneous/ΔG negative/less positive AND effect of negative entropy decreases/TΔS increases/is less negative/more positive
OR
reaction «more» spontaneous/ΔG negative/less positive AND reaction exothermic «so Kc increases » ✔
Award mark if correct calculation shown.
Examiners report
Limestone can be converted into a variety of useful commercial products through the lime cycle. Limestone contains high percentages of calcium carbonate, CaCO3.
Thermodynamic data for the decomposition of calcium carbonate is given.
The second step of the lime cycle produces calcium hydroxide, Ca(OH)2.
Calcium hydroxide reacts with carbon dioxide to reform calcium carbonate.
Ca(OH)2 (aq) + CO2 (g) → CaCO3 (s) + H2O (l)
Calcium carbonate is heated to produce calcium oxide, CaO.
CaCO3 (s) → CaO (s) + CO2 (g)
Calculate the volume of carbon dioxide produced at STP when 555 g of calcium carbonate decomposes. Use sections 2 and 6 of the data booklet.
Calculate the enthalpy change of reaction, ΔH, in kJ, for the decomposition of calcium carbonate.
Calculate the change in entropy, ΔS, in J K−1, for the decomposition of calcium carbonate.
Determine the temperature, in K, at which the decomposition of calcium carbonate becomes spontaneous, using b(i), b(ii) and section 1 of the data booklet.
(If you do not have answers for b(i) and b(ii), use ΔH = 190 kJ and ΔS = 180 J K−1, but these are not the correct answers.)
Sketch an energy profile for the decomposition of calcium carbonate based on your answer to b(i), labelling the axes and activation energy, Ea.
State how adding a catalyst to the reaction would impact the enthalpy change of reaction, ΔH, and the activation energy, Ea.
Write the equation for the reaction of Ca(OH)2 (aq) with hydrochloric acid, HCl (aq).
Determine the volume, in dm3, of 0.015 mol dm−3 calcium hydroxide solution needed to neutralize 35.0 cm3 of 0.025 mol dm−3 HCl (aq).
Saturated calcium hydroxide solution is used to test for carbon dioxide. Calculate the pH of a 2.33 × 10−2 mol dm−3 solution of calcium hydroxide, a strong base.
Determine the mass, in g, of CaCO3 (s) produced by reacting 2.41 dm3 of 2.33 × 10−2 mol dm−3 of Ca(OH)2 (aq) with 0.750 dm3 of CO2 (g) at STP.
2.85 g of CaCO3 was collected in the experiment in d(i). Calculate the percentage yield of CaCO3.
(If you did not obtain an answer to d(i), use 4.00 g, but this is not the correct value.)
Outline how one calcium compound in the lime cycle can reduce a problem caused by acid deposition.
Markscheme
«nCaCO3 = =» 5.55 «mol» ✓
«V = 5.55 mol × 22.7 dm3 mol−1 =» 126 «dm3» ✓
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Accept method using pV = nRT to obtain the volume with p as either 100 kPa (126 dm3) or 101.3 kPa (125 dm3).
Do not penalize use of 22.4 dm3 mol–1 to obtain the volume (124 dm3).
«ΔH =» (−635 «kJ» – 393.5 «kJ») – (−1207 «kJ») ✓
«ΔH = + » 179 «kJ» ✓
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Award [1 max] for −179 kJ.
Ignore an extra step to determine total enthalpy change in kJ: 179 kJ mol-1 x 5.55 mol = 993 kJ.
Award [2] for an answer in the range 990 - 993« kJ».
«ΔS = (40 J K−1 + 214 J K−1) − (93 J K−1) =» 161 «J K−1» ✓
Ignore an extra step to determine total entropy change in JK–1: 161 J mol–1K–1 x 5.55 mol = 894 «J mol–1K–1»
Award [1] for 894 «J mol–1K–1».
«spontaneous» if ΔG = ΔH − TΔS < 0
OR
ΔH < TΔS ✓
«T >=» 1112 «K» ✓
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Accept “1056 K” if both of the incorrect values are used to solve the problem.
Do not award M2 for any negative T value.
endothermic sketch ✓
x-axis labelled “extent of reaction/progress of reaction/reaction coordinate/reaction pathway” AND y-axis labelled “potential energy/energy/enthalpy✓
activation energy/Ea ✓
Do not accept “time” for x-axis.
ΔH same AND lower Ea ✓
Ca(OH)2 (aq) + 2HCl (aq) → 2H2O (l) + CaCl2 (aq) ✓
«nHCl = 0.0350 dm3 × 0.025 mol dm−3 =» 0.00088 «mol»
OR
nCa(OH)2 = nHCl/0.00044 «mol» ✓
«V = =» 0.029 «dm3» ✓
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Award [1 max] for 0.058 «dm3».
Alternative 1:
[OH−] = « 2 × 2.33 × 10−2 mol dm−3 =» 0.0466 «mol dm−3» ✓
«[H+] = = 2.15 × 10−13 mol dm−3»
pH = « −log (2.15 × 10−13) =» 12.668 ✓
Alternative 2:
[OH−] =« 2 × 2.33 × 10−2 mol dm−3 =» 0.0466 «mol dm−3» ✓
«pOH = −log (0.0466) = 1.332»
pH = «14.000 – pOH = 14.000 – 1.332 =» 12.668 ✓
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Award [1 max] for pH =12.367.
«nCa(OH)2 = 2.41 dm3 × 2.33 × 10−2 mol dm−3 =» 0.0562 «mol» AND
«nCO2 ==» 0.0330 «mol» ✓
«CO2 is the limiting reactant»
«mCaCO3 = 0.0330 mol × 100.09 g mol−1 =» 3.30 «g» ✓
Only award ECF for M2 if limiting reagent is used.
Accept answers in the range 3.30 - 3.35 «g».
« × 100 =» 86.4 «%» ✓
Accept answers in the range 86.1-86.4 «%».
Accept “71.3 %” for using the incorrect given value of 4.00 g.
«add» Ca(OH)2/CaCO3/CaO AND to «acidic» water/river/lake/soil
OR
«use» Ca(OH)2/CaCO3/CaO in scrubbers «to prevent release of acidic pollution» ✓
Accept any correct name for any of the calcium compounds listed.
Examiners report
Propene is an important starting material for many products. The following shows some compounds which can be made from propene, C3H6.
Propene (C3H6) → C3H7Cl → C3H8O → C3H6O
Consider the conversion of propene to C3H7Cl.
An experiment was carried out to determine the order of reaction between one of the isomers of C3H7Cl and aqueous sodium hydroxide. The following results were obtained.
State the type of reaction.
State the IUPAC name of the major product.
Outline why it is the major product.
Write an equation for the reaction of the major product with aqueous sodium hydroxide to produce a C3H8O compound, showing structural formulas.
Determine the rate expression from the results, explaining your method.
Deduce the type of mechanism for the reaction of this isomer of C3H7Cl with aqueous sodium hydroxide.
Sketch the mechanism using curly arrows to represent the movement of electrons.
Write an equation for the complete combustion of the compound C3H8O formed in (a)(iv).
Determine the enthalpy of combustion of this compound, in kJ mol−1, using data from section 11 of the data booklet.
State the reagents for the conversion of the compound C3H8O formed in (a)(iv) into C3H6O.
Explain why the compound C3H8O, produced in (a)(iv), has a higher boiling point than compound C3H6O, produced in d(i).
Explain why the 1H NMR spectrum of C3H6O, produced in (d)(i), shows only one signal.
Propene is often polymerized. Draw a section of the resulting polymer, showing two repeating units.
Markscheme
«electrophilic» addition ✔
NOTE: Do not accept “nucleophilic addition” or “free radical addition”.
Do not accept “halogenation”.
2-chloropropane ✔
secondary carbocation/carbonium «ion» is more stable
OR
carbocation/carbonium «ion» stabilized by two/more alkyl groups ✔
CH3CHClCH3 (l) + OH− (aq) → CH3CH(OH)CH3 (aq) + Cl− (aq)
OR
CH3CHClCH3 (l) + NaOH (aq) → CH3CH(OH)CH3 (aq) + NaCl (aq) ✔
Rate = k [C3H7Cl] [OH−] ✔
«[OH−] held constant and» [C3H7Cl] triples AND rate triples «so first order wrt C3H7Cl» ✔
[C3H7Cl] doubles AND [OH−] doubles AND rate quadruples «so first order wrt OH−» ✔
SN2 ✔
NOTE: Accept ‘bimolecular nucleophilic substitution.’
curly arrow going from lone pair on O/negative charge on OH– to C ✔
curly arrow showing C–Cl bond breaking ✔
representation of transition state showing negative charge, square brackets and partial bonds ✔
formation of CH3CH(OH)CH3 AND Cl– ✔
NOTE: Do not allow arrow originating on H in OH–.
Allow curly arrow going from bond between C and Cl to Cl in either reactant or transition state.
Do not award M3 if OH–C bond is represented.
Accept formation of NaCl instead of Cl–.
2C3H8O (l) + 9O2 (g) → 6CO2 (g) + 8H2O (g)
OR
C3H8O (l) + 4.5O2 (g) → 3CO2 (g) + 4H2O (g) ✔
bonds broken:
7(C–H) + C–O + O–H + 2(C–C) + 4.5(O=O)
OR
7(414 «kJ mol−1») + 358 «kJ mol−1» + 463 «kJ mol−1» + 2(346 «kJ mol−1») + 4.5(498 «kJ mol−1») / 6652 «kJ» ✔
bonds formed:
6(C=O) + 8(O–H)
OR
6(804 «kJ mol−1») + 8(463 «kJ mol−1») / 8528 «kJ» ✔
«ΔH = bonds broken − bonds formed = 6652 – 8528 =» −1876 «kJ mol−1» ✔
NOTE: Award [3] for correct final answer.
K2Cr2O7/Cr2O72–/«potassium» dichromate «(VI)» AND acidified/H+
OR
«acidified potassium» manganate(VII) / «H+ and» KMnO4 / «H+ and» MnO4– ✔
NOTE: Accept “H2SO4” or “H3PO4” for “H+”.
Do not accept HCl.
Accept “permanganate” for “manganate(VII)”.
C3H8O/propan-2-ol: hydrogen-bonding AND C3H6O/propanone: no hydrogen bonding/«only» dipole–dipole/dispersion forces ✔
hydrogen bonding stronger «than dipole–dipole» ✔
only one hydrogen environment
OR
methyl groups symmetrical «around carbonyl group» ✔
NOTE: Accept “all hydrogens belong to methyl groups «which are in identical positions»”.
✔
NOTE: Continuation bonds must be shown.
Methyl groups may be drawn on opposite sides of the chain or head to tail.
Ignore square brackets and “n”.
Examiners report
Rhenium, Re, was the last element with a stable isotope to be isolated.
Before its isolation, scientists predicted the existence of rhenium and some of its properties.
One chloride of rhenium has the empirical formula ReCl3.
Rhenium forms salts containing the perrhenate(VII) ion, ReO4−.
The stable isotope of rhenium contains 110 neutrons.
State the nuclear symbol notation for this isotope.
Suggest the basis of these predictions.
A scientist wants to investigate the catalytic properties of a thin layer of rhenium metal on a graphite surface.
Describe an electrochemical process to produce a layer of rhenium on graphite.
Predict two other chemical properties you would expect rhenium to have, given its position in the periodic table.
Describe how the relative reactivity of rhenium, compared to silver, zinc, and copper, can be established using pieces of rhenium and solutions of these metal sulfates.
State the name of this compound, applying IUPAC rules.
Calculate the percentage, by mass, of rhenium in ReCl3.
Suggest why the existence of salts containing an ion with this formula could be predicted. Refer to section 6 of the data booklet.
Deduce the coefficients required to complete the half-equation.
ReO4− (aq) + ____H+ (aq) + ____e− ⇌ [Re(OH)2]2+ (aq) + ____H2O (l) Eθ = +0.36 V
Predict, giving a reason, whether the reduction of ReO4− to [Re(OH)2]2+ would oxidize Fe2+ to Fe3+ in aqueous solution. Use section 24 of the data booklet.
Markscheme
[✔]
gap in the periodic table
OR
element with atomic number «75» unknown
OR
break/irregularity in periodic trends [✔]
«periodic table shows» regular/periodic trends «in properties» [✔]
electrolyze «a solution of /molten» rhenium salt/Ren+ [✔]
graphite as cathode/negative electrode
OR
rhenium forms at cathode/negative electrode [✔]
Note: Accept “using rhenium anode” for M1.
Any two of:
variable oxidation states [✔]
forms complex ions/compounds [✔]
coloured compounds/ions [✔]
«para»magnetic compounds/ions [✔]
Note: Accept other valid responses related to its chemical metallic properties.
Do not accept “catalytic properties”.
place «pieces of» Re into each solution [✔]
if Re reacts/is coated with metal, that metal is less reactive «than Re» [✔]
Note: Accept other valid observations such as “colour of solution fades” or “solid/metal appears” for “reacts”.
rhenium(III) chloride
OR
rhenium trichloride [✔]
«Mr ReCl3 = 186.21 + (3 × 35.45) =» 292.56 [✔]
«100 × =» 63.648 «%» [✔]
same group as Mn «which forms MnO4-»
OR
in group 7/has 7 valence electrons, so its «highest» oxidation state is +7 [✔]
ReO4− (aq) + 6H+ (aq) + 3e− ⇌ [Re(OH)2]2+ (aq) + 2H2O (l) [✔]
no AND ReO4− is a weaker oxidizing agent than Fe3+
OR
no AND Fe3+ is a stronger oxidizing agent than ReO4−
OR
no AND Fe2+ is a weaker reducing agent than [Re(OH)2]2+
OR
no AND [Re(OH)2]2+ is a stronger reducing agent than Fe2+
OR
no AND cell emf would be negative/–0.41 V [✔]
Examiners report
It was expected that this question would be answered correctly by all HL candidates. However, many confused the A-Z positions or calculated very unusual numbers for A, sometimes even with decimals.
This is a NOS question which required some reflection on the full meaning of the periodic table and the wealth of information contained in it. But very few candidates understood that they were being asked to explain periodicity and the concept behind the periodic table, which they actually apply all the time. Some were able to explain the “gap” idea and other based predictions on properties of nearby elements instead of thinking of periodic trends. A fair number of students listed properties of transition metals in general.
Generally well done; most described the cell identifying the two electrodes correctly and a few did mention the need for Re salt/ion electrolyte.
Generally well answered though some students suggested physical properties rather than chemical ones.
Many candidates chose to set up voltaic cells and in other cases failed to explain the actual experimental set up of Re being placed in solutions of other metal salts or the reaction they could expect to see.
Almost all candidates were able to name the compound according to IUPAC.
Most candidates were able to answer this stoichiometric question correctly.
This should have been a relatively easy question but many candidates sometimes failed to see the connection with Mn or the amount of electrons in its outer shell.
Surprisingly, a great number of students were unable to balance this simple half-equation that was given to them to avoid difficulties in recall of reactants/products.
Many students understood that the oxidation of Fe2+ was not viable but were unable to explain why in terms of oxidizing and reducing power; many students simply gave numerical values for EΘ often failing to realise that the oxidation of Fe2+ would have the inverse sign to the reduction reaction.
3.26 g of iron powder are added to 80.0 cm3 of 0.200 mol dm−3 copper(II) sulfate solution. The following reaction occurs:
Fe (s) + CuSO4 (aq) → FeSO4 (aq) + Cu (s)
Determine the limiting reactant showing your working.
The mass of copper obtained experimentally was 0.872 g. Calculate the percentage yield of copper.
The reaction was carried out in a calorimeter. The maximum temperature rise of the solution was 7.5 °C.
Calculate the enthalpy change, ΔH, of the reaction, in kJ, assuming that all the heat released was absorbed by the solution. Use sections 1 and 2 of the data booklet.
State another assumption you made in (b)(i).
The only significant uncertainty is in the temperature measurement.
Determine the absolute uncertainty in the calculated value of ΔH if the uncertainty in the temperature rise was ±0.2 °C.
Sketch a graph of the concentration of iron(II) sulfate, FeSO4, against time as the reaction proceeds.
Outline how the initial rate of reaction can be determined from the graph in part (c)(i).
Explain, using the collision theory, why replacing the iron powder with a piece of iron of the same mass slows down the rate of the reaction.
A student electrolyzed aqueous iron(II) sulfate, FeSO4 (aq), using platinum electrodes. State half-equations for the reactions at the electrodes, using section 24 of the data booklet.
Markscheme
nCuSO4 «= 0.0800 dm3 × 0.200 mol dm–3» = 0.0160 mol AND
nFe «» = 0.0584 mol ✔
CuSO4 is the limiting reactant ✔
Do not award M2 if mole calculation is not shown.
ALTERNATIVE 1:
«0.0160 mol × 63.55 g mol–1 =» 1.02 «g» ✔
«» 85.5 «%» ✔
ALTERNATIVE 2:
«» 0.0137 «mol» ✔
«» 85.6 «%» ✔
Accept answers in the range 85–86 %.
Award [2] for correct final answer.
ALTERNATIVE 1:
q = «80.0 g × 4.18 J g–1 K–1 × 7.5 K =» 2.5 × 103 «J»/2.5 «kJ» ✔
«per mol of CuSO4 = kJ mol–1»
«for the reaction» ΔH = –1.6 × 102 «kJ» ✔
ALTERNATIVE 2:
q = «80.0 g × 4.18 J g–1 K–1 × 7.5 K =» 2.5 × 103 «J»/2.5 «kJ» ✔
«nCu = = 0.0137 mol»
«per mol of CuSO4 = kJ mol–1»
«for the reaction» ΔH = –1.8 × 102 «kJ» ✔
Award [2] for correct final answer.
density «of solution» is 1.00 g cm−3
OR
specific heat capacity «of solution» is 4.18 J g−1 K−1/that of «pure» water
OR
reaction goes to completion
OR
iron/CuSO4 does not react with other substances ✔
The mark for “reaction goes to completion” can only be awarded if 0.0160 mol was used in part (b)(i).
Do not accept “heat loss”.
ALTERNATIVE 1:
«» 3 %/0.03 ✔
«0.03 × 160 kJ» = «±» 5 «kJ» ✔
ALTERNATIVE 2:
«» 3 %/0.03 ✔
«0.03 × 180 kJ» = «±» 5 «kJ» ✔
Accept values in the range 4.1–5.5 «kJ».
Award [2] for correct final answer.
initial concentration is zero AND concentration increases with time ✔
decreasing gradient as reaction proceeds ✔
«draw a» tangent to the curve at time = 0 ✔
«rate equals» gradient/slope «of the tangent» ✔
Accept suitable diagram.
piece has smaller surface area ✔
lower frequency of collisions
OR
fewer collisions per second/unit time ✔
Accept “chance/probability” instead of “frequency”.
Do not accept just “fewer collisions”.
Anode (positive electrode):
2H2O (l) → O2 (g) + 4H+ (aq) + 4e– ✔
Cathode (negative electrode):
2H2O (l) + 2e– → H2 (g) + 2OH– (aq)
OR
2H+ (aq) + 2e– → H2 (g) ✔
Accept “4OH– (aq) → O2 (g) + 2H2O (l) + 4e–” OR “Fe2+ (aq) → Fe3+ (aq) + e–” for M1.
Accept “Fe2+ (aq) + 2e– → Fe (s)” OR “SO42- (aq) 4H+ (aq) + 2e– → 2H2SO3(aq) + H2O (l)”
for M2.
Examiners report
The thermal decomposition of dinitrogen monoxide occurs according to the equation:
2N2O (g) → 2N2 (g) + O2 (g)
The reaction can be followed by measuring the change in total pressure, at constant temperature, with time.
The x-axis and y-axis are shown with arbitrary units.
This decomposition obeys the rate expression:
= k[N2O]
Explain why, as the reaction proceeds, the pressure increases by the amount shown.
Outline, in terms of collision theory, how a decrease in pressure would affect the rate of reaction.
Deduce how the rate of reaction at t = 2 would compare to the initial rate.
It has been suggested that the reaction occurs as a two-step process:
Step 1: N2O (g) → N2 (g) + O (g)
Step 2: N2O (g) + O (g) → N2 (g) + O2 (g)
Explain how this could support the observed rate expression.
The experiment is repeated using the same amount of dinitrogen monoxide in the same apparatus, but at a lower temperature.
Sketch, on the axes in question 2, the graph that you would expect.
The experiment gave an error in the rate because the pressure gauge was inaccurate.
Outline whether repeating the experiment, using the same apparatus, and averaging the results would reduce the error.
The graph below shows the Maxwell–Boltzmann distribution of molecular energies at a particular temperature.
The rate at which dinitrogen monoxide decomposes is significantly increased by a metal oxide catalyst.
Annotate and use the graph to outline why a catalyst has this effect.
Determine the standard entropy change, in J K−1, for the decomposition of dinitrogen monoxide.
2N2O (g) → 2N2 (g) + O2 (g)
Dinitrogen monoxide has a positive standard enthalpy of formation, ΔHfθ.
Deduce, giving reasons, whether altering the temperature would change the spontaneity of the decomposition reaction.
Markscheme
increase in the amount/number of moles/molecules «of gas» [✔]
from 2 to 3/by 50 % [✔]
«rate of reaction decreases»
concentration/number of molecules in a given volume decreases
OR
more space between molecules [✔]
collision rate/frequency decreases
OR
fewer collisions per unit time [✔]
Note: Do not accept just “larger space/volume” for M1.
half «of the initial rate» [✔]
Note: Accept “lower/slower «than initial rate»”.
1 slower than 2
OR
1 rate determinant step/RDS [✔]
1 is unimolecular/involves just one molecule so it must be first order
OR
if 1 faster/2 RDS, second order in N2O
OR
if 1 faster/2 RDS, first order in O [✔]
smaller initial gradient [✔]
initial pressure is lower AND final pressure of gas lower «by similar factor» [✔]
no AND it is a systematic error/not a random error
OR
no AND «a similar magnitude» error would occur every time [✔]
catalysed and uncatalysed Ea marked on graph AND with the catalysed being at lower energy [✔]
«for catalysed reaction» greater proportion of/more molecules have E ≥ Ea / E > Ea
OR
«for catalysed reaction» greater area under curve to the right of the Ea [✔]
Note: Accept “more molecules have the activation energy”.
ΔSθ = 2(Sθ(N2)) + Sθ(O2) – 2(Sθ(N2O))
OR
ΔSθ = 2 × 193 «J mol-1 K-1» + 205 «J mol-1 K-1» – 2 × 220 «J mol-1 K-1» [✔]
«ΔSθ = +»151 «J K-1» [✔]
Note: Award [2] for correct final answer.
exothermic decomposition
OR
ΔH(decomposition) < 0 [✔]
TΔSθ > ΔHθ
OR
ΔGθ «= ΔHθ – TΔSθ» < 0 «at all temperatures» [✔]
reaction spontaneous at all temperatures [✔]
Examiners report
Students were able in general to relate more moles of gas to increase in pressure.
Few students were able to relate the effect of reduced pressure at constant volume with a decrease in concentration of gas molecules and mostly did not even refer to this, but rather concentrated on lower rate of reaction and frequency of collisions. Many candidates lost a mark by failing to explain rate as collisions per unit time, frequency, etc.
Though the differential equation was considered to be misleading by teachers, most candidates attempted to answer this question, and more than half did so correctly, considering they had the graph to visualize the gradient.
Most students were able to identity step 1 as the RDS/slow but few mentioned unimolecularity or referred vaguely to NO2 as the only reagent (which was obvious) and got only 1 mark.
Many students drew a lower initial gradient, but most did not reflect the effect of lower temperature on pressure at constant volume and started and finished the curve at the same pressure as the original one.
Almost all candidates identified the inaccurate pressure gauge as a systematic error, thus relating accuracy to this type of error.
The graph was generally well done, but in quite a few cases, candidates did not mention that increase of rate in the catalyzed reaction was due to E (particles) > Ea or did so too vaguely.
Candidates were able to calculate the ΔS of the reaction, though in some cases they failed to multiply by the number of moles.
Though the question asked for decomposition (in bold), most candidates ignored this and worked on the basis of a the ΔH of formation. However, many did write a sound explanation for that situation. On the other hand, in quite a number of cases, they did not state the sign of the ΔH (probably taking it for granted) nor explicitly relate ΔG and spontaneity, which left the examiner with no possibility of evaluating their reasoning.
An organic compound containing carbon, hydrogen and oxygen has 62.02 % carbon and 10.43 % hydrogen by mass.
Determine the empirical formula of the compound, showing your working.
The infrared spectrum of the compound is shown. Deduce the functional group of the compound.
The mass spectrum of the compound is shown. Deduce the relative molecular mass of the compound.
The compound could not be oxidized using acidifi ed potassium dichromate(VI).
Deduce the structural formula of the compound.
Markscheme
«in 100 g sample» AND
OR
«in 100 g sample» 5.164 mol C AND 10.33 mol H ✔
27.55 %
OR
1.722 mol O ✔
«empirical formula» C3H6O ✔
«absorption at wavenumber 1700−1750 cm–1» C=O/carbonyl ✔
Do not accept “ketone” or “aldehyde”.
«m/z =» 58 ✔
Examiners report
Carbonated water is produced when carbon dioxide is dissolved in water under pressure. The following equilibria are established.
Equilibrium (1) CO2 (g) CO2 (aq)
Equilibrium (2) CO2 (aq) + H2O (l) H+ (aq) + HCO3− (aq)
Carbon dioxide acts as a weak acid.
Soda water has sodium hydrogencarbonate, NaHCO3, dissolved in the carbonated water.
Distinguish between a weak and strong acid.
Weak acid:
Strong acid:
The hydrogencarbonate ion, produced in Equilibrium (2), can also act as an acid.
State the formula of its conjugate base.
When a bottle of carbonated water is opened, these equilibria are disturbed.
State, giving a reason, how a decrease in pressure affects the position of Equilibrium (1).
At 298 K the concentration of aqueous carbon dioxide in carbonated water is 0.200 mol dm−3 and the pKa for Equilibrium (2) is 6.36.
Calculate the pH of carbonated water.
Identify the type of bonding in sodium hydrogencarbonate.
Between sodium and hydrogencarbonate:
Between hydrogen and oxygen in hydrogencarbonate:
Predict, referring to Equilibrium (2), how the added sodium hydrogencarbonate affects the pH.(Assume pressure and temperature remain constant.)
100.0cm3 of soda water contains 3.0 × 10−2g NaHCO3.
Calculate the concentration of NaHCO3 in mol dm−3.
The uncertainty of the 100.0cm3 volumetric flask used to make the solution was ±0.6cm3.
Calculate the maximum percentage uncertainty in the mass of NaHCO3 so that the concentration of the solution is correct to ±1.0 %.
The reaction of the hydroxide ion with carbon dioxide and with the hydrogencarbonate ion can be represented by Equations 3 and 4.
Equation (3) OH− (aq) + CO2 (g) → HCO3− (aq)
Equation (4) OH− (aq) + HCO3− (aq) → H2O (l) + CO32− (aq)
Discuss how these equations show the difference between a Lewis base and a Brønsted–Lowry base.
Equation (3):
Equation (4):
Aqueous sodium hydrogencarbonate has a pH of approximately 7 at 298 K.
Sketch a graph of pH against volume when 25.0cm3 of 0.100 mol dm−3 NaOH (aq) is gradually added to 10.0cm3 of 0.0500 mol dm−3 NaHCO3 (aq).
Markscheme
Weak acid: partially dissociated/ionized «in aqueous solution/water»
AND
Strong acid: «assumed to be almost» completely/100 % dissociated/ionized «in aqueous solution/water» [✔]
CO32- [✔]
shifts to left/reactants AND to increase amount/number of moles/molecules of gas/CO2 (g) [✔]
Note: Accept “shifts to left/reactants AND to increase pressure”.
«Ka =» 10–6.36/4.37 × 10–7 =
OR
«Ka =» 10–6.36/4.37 × 10–7 = [✔]
[H+] « » = 2.95 × 10–4 «mol dm–3» [✔]
«pH =» 3.53 [✔]
Note: Award [3] for correct final answer.
Between sodium and hydrogencarbonate:
ionic [✔]
Between hydrogen and oxygen in hydrogencarbonate:
«polar» covalent [✔]
«additional HCO3-» shifts position of equilibrium to left [✔]
pH increases [✔]
Note: Do not award M2 without any justification in terms of equilibrium shift in M1.
«molar mass of NaHCO3 =» 84.01 «g mol-1» [✔]
«concentration = =» 3.6 × 10–3 «mol dm-3» [✔]
Note: Award [2] for correct final answer.
«1.0 – 0.6 = ± » 0.4 «%» [✔]
Equation (3):
OH- donates an electron pair AND acts as a Lewis base [✔]
Equation (4):
OH- accepts a proton/H+/hydrogen ion AND acts as a Brønsted–Lowry base [✔]
S-shaped curve from ~7 to between 12 and 14 [✔]
equivalence point at 5 cm3 [✔]
Note: Accept starting point >6~7.
Examiners report
As expected, many candidates were able to distinguish between strong and weak acids; some candidates referred to “dissolve” rather than dissociate.
More than half the candidates were able to deduce that carbonate was the conjugate base but a significant proportion of those that did, wrote the carbonate ion with an incorrect charge.
Many students gave generic responses referring to a correct shift without conveying the idea of compensation or restoration of pressure or moles of gas. This generic reply reflects the difficulty in applying a theoretical concept to the practical situation described in the question.
Most candidates calculated the pH of the aqueous CO2. Some candidates attempted to use the Henderson-Hasselback equation and others used the quadratic expression to calculate [H+] (these two options were very common in the Spanish scripts) getting incorrect solutions. These answers usually ended in pH of approx. 1 which candidates should realize cannot be correct for soda water.
This was an easy question, especially the identification of the type of bond between H and O, yet some candidates interpreted that the question referred to intermolecular bonding.
A significant number of candidates omitted the “equilibrium” involved in the dissolution of a weak base.
This is another stoichiometry question that most candidates were able to solve well, with occasional errors when calculating Mr of hydrogen carbonate.
Mixed responses, more attention should be given to this simple calculation which is straightforward and should be easy as required for IA reports.
This was a good way to test this topic because answers showed that, while candidates usually knew the topic in theory, they could not apply this to identify the Lewis and Bronsted-Lowry bases in the context of a reaction that was given to them. In some cases, they failed to specify the base, OH- or also lost marks referring just to electrons, an electron or H instead of hydrogen ions or H+ for example.
Most students that got 1mark for this titration curve was for the general shape, because few realized they had the data to calculate the equivalence point. There were also some difficulties in establishing the starting point even if it was specified in the stem.
Ammonia is soluble in water and forms an alkaline solution:
NH3 (g) + H2O (l) NH4+ (aq) + HO– (aq)
State the relationship between NH4+ and NH3 in terms of the Brønsted–Lowry theory.
Determine the concentration, in mol dm–3, of the solution formed when 900.0 dm3 of NH3 (g) at 300.0 K and 100.0 kPa, is dissolved in water to form 2.00 dm3 of solution. Use sections 1 and 2 of the data booklet.
Calculate the concentration of hydroxide ions in an ammonia solution with pH = 9.3. Use sections 1 and 2 of the data booklet.
Calculate the concentration, in mol dm–3, of ammonia molecules in the solution with pH = 9.3. Use section 21 of the data booklet.
An aqueous solution containing high concentrations of both NH3 and NH4+ acts as an acid-base buffer solution as a result of the equilibrium:
NH3 (aq) + H+ (aq) NH4+ (aq)
Referring to this equilibrium, outline why adding a small volume of strong acid would leave the pH of the buffer solution almost unchanged.
Magnesium salts form slightly acidic solutions owing to equilibria such as:
Mg2+ (aq) + H2O (l) Mg(OH)+ (aq) + H+ (aq)
Comment on the role of Mg2+ in forming the Mg(OH)+ ion, in acid-base terms.
Mg(OH)+ is a complex ion, but Mg is not regarded as a transition metal. Contrast Mg with manganese, Mn, in terms of one characteristic chemical property of transition metals, other than complex ion formation.
Markscheme
conjugate «acid and base» ✔
amount of ammonia ✔
concentration ✔
Award [2] for correct final answer.
✔
✔
✔
Accept other methods of carrying out the calculation.
Award [2] for correct answer.
equilibrium shifts to right/H+ reacts with NH3 ✔
«as large excess» ratio [NH3]:[NH4+] «and hence pH» almost unchanged ✔
Accept “strong acid/H+ converted to a weak acid/NH4+ «and hence pH almost unchanged».
Lewis acid ✔
accepts «a lone» electron pair «from the hydroxide ion» ✔
Do not accept electron acceptor without mention of electron pair.
ALTERNATIVE 1
Property: variable oxidation state ✔
Comparison: Mn compounds can exist in different valencies/oxidation states AND Mg has a valency/oxidation state of +2 in all its compounds ✔
Accept valency.
Accept for second statement “Mg «always» has the same oxidation state”.
ALTERNATIVE 2
Property: coloured ions/compounds/complexes ✔
Comparison: Mn ions/compounds/complexes coloured AND Mg ions/compounds white/«as solids»/colourless «in aqueous solution» ✔
Accept Mn forms coloured ions/compounds/complexes and Mg does not.
ALTERNATIVE 3
Property: catalytic activity ✔
Comparison: «many» Mn compounds act as catalysts AND Mg compounds do not «generally» catalyse reactions ✔
For any property accept a correct specific example, for example manganate(VII) is purple.
Do not accept differences in atomic structure, such as partially filled d sub-levels, but award ECF for a correct discussion.
Examiners report
Well done; However, instead of identifying the conjugate acid-base relationship, some simply identified these as Brønsted–Lowry base and acid.
Good performance. Some teachers suggested the question had an error in units, but this was not the case. The question had to be solved, first by using the data provided for application of gas law to determine the number of moles of gas. Next, given volume of solution, V = 2.00 dm3, determine its concentration.
Concentration of [OH˗] was asked for but some calculated [H3O+] instead. On the whole, question was done well.
Mediocre performance. Since a mark was given for the Kb expression, that mark could also be scored for the Henderson Hasselbalch (HH) equation, provided it is specific to the equilibrium reaction. Unfortunately, there was poor understanding of the application of the equation in most cases. Students should be strongly encouraged to use the HH equation only when a buffer is involved. Appropriate Ka or Kb expressions should be used when buffer solutions are not involved.
Mediocre performance. One mark was scored for suggesting equilibrium shifts to right or H+ reacts with NH3. However, some made reference to ammonia being a strong base or no reference to the strong acid, H+ being converted to a weak acid, NH4+.
Mediocre performance; although some Mg2+ was identified as a Lewis acid, the reasoning given was that it accepts an electron, rather than an electron pair or references were made to Bronsted-Lowry theory.
Ethanol and methanoic acid are important industrial products.
Ethanol is used as a fuel.
Write the chemical equation for the complete combustion of ethanol.
Deduce the change in enthalpy, ΔH, in kJ, when 56.00 g of ethanol is burned. Use section 13 in the data booklet.
Oxidation of ethanol with potassium dichromate, K2Cr2O7, can form two different organic products. Determine the names of the organic products and the methods used to isolate them.
Write the equation and name the organic product when ethanol reacts with methanoic acid.
Sketch the titration curve of methanoic acid with sodium hydroxide, showing how you would determine methanoic acid pKa.
Identify an indicator that could be used for the titration in 5(d)(i), using section 22 of the data booklet.
Determine the concentration of methanoic acid in a solution of pH = 4.12. Use section 21 of the data booklet.
Identify if aqueous solutions of the following salts are acidic, basic, or neutral.
Markscheme
CH3CH2OH (l) + 3O2 (g) → 2CO2 (g) + 3H2O (g) ✓
«n = =» 1.215 «mol» ✓
«1.215mol × (−1367 kJ mol−1) =» −1661 «kJ» ✓
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Award [1 max] for “«+»1661 «kJ»”.
ethanal AND distillation ✓
ethanoic acid AND reflux «followed by distillation» ✓
Award [1] for both products OR both methods.
Equation:
CH3CH2OH + HCOOH HCOOCH2CH3 + H2O ✓
Product name:
ethyl methanoate ✓
Accept equation without equilibrium arrows.
Accept equation with molecular formulas (C2H6O + CH2O2 C3H6O2 + H2O) only if product name is correct.
increasing S-shape pH curve ✓
pKa: pH at half neutralization/equivalence ✓
M1: Titration curve must show buffer region at pH <7 and equivalence at pH >7.
Ignore other parts of the curve, i.e., before buffer region, etc.
Accept curve starting from where two axes meet as pH scale is not specified.
phenolphthalein
OR
phenol red ✓
Alternative 1:
Ka =
OR
[HCOOH] = ✓
«[HCOOH] =» 3.24 × 10−5 «mol dm−3» ✓
Alternative 2:
«pH = pKa + log »
4.12 = 3.75 + log ✓
«[HCOOH] =» 3.24 × 10−5 «mol dm−3» ✓
Award [2] for correct final answer.
Sodium methanoate: basic
Ammonium chloride: acidic
Sodium nitrate: neutral ✓ ✓
Award [2] for three correct.
Award [1] for two correct.
Examiners report
This question is about carbon and chlorine compounds.
Ethane, , reacts with chlorine in sunlight. State the type of this reaction and the name of the mechanism by which it occurs.
Formulate equations for the two propagation steps and one termination step in the formation of chloroethane from ethane.
Deduce the splitting patterns in the 1H NMR spectrum of C2H5Cl.
Explain why tetramethylsilane (TMS) is often used as a reference standard in 1H NMR.
One possible product, X, of the reaction of ethane with chlorine has the following composition by mass:
carbon: 24.27%, hydrogen: 4.08%, chlorine: 71.65%
Determine the empirical formula of the product.
The mass and 1H NMR spectra of product X are shown below. Deduce, giving your reasons, its structural formula and hence the name of the compound.
When the product X is reacted with NaOH in a hot alcoholic solution, C2H3Cl is formed. State the role of the reactant NaOH other than as a nucleophile.
Chloroethene, , can undergo polymerization. Draw a section of the polymer with three repeating units.
Markscheme
substitution AND «free-»radical
OR
substitution AND chain
Award [1] for “«free-»radical substitution” or “SR” written anywhere in the answer.
[1 mark]
Two propagation steps:
One termination step:
OR
OR
Accept radical without if consistent throughout.
Allow ECF for incorrect radicals produced in propagation step for M3.
[3 marks]
triplet AND quartet
[1 mark]
chemical shift/signal outside range of common chemical shift/signal
strong signal/12/all H atoms in same environment
OR
singlet/no splitting of the signal
volatile/easily separated/easily removed
OR
inert/stabl
contains three common NMR nuclei/1H and 13C and 29Si
Do not accept chemical shift = 0.
[2 marks]
AND AND
«hence» CH2Cl
Accept : :
Do not accept C2H4Cl2.
Award [2] for correct final answer.
[2 marks]
molecular ion peak(s) «about» m/z 100 AND «so» C2H4Cl2 «isotopes of Cl»
two signals «in 1H NMR spectrum» AND «so» CH3CHCl2
OR
«signals in» 3:1 ratio «in 1H NMR spectrum» AND «so» CH3CHCl2
OR
one doublet and one quartet «in 1H NMR spectrum» AND «so» CH3CHCl2
1,1-dichloroethane
Accept “peaks” for “signals”.
Allow ECF for a correct name for M3 if an incorrect chlorohydrocarbon is identified.
[3 marks]
base
OR
proton acceptor
[1 mark]
Continuation bonds must be shown.
Ignore square brackets and “n”.
Accept .
Accept other versions of the polymer, such as head to head and head to tail.
Accept condensed structure provided all C to C bonds are shown (as single).
[1 mark]
Examiners report
Dinitrogen monoxide, N2O, causes depletion of ozone in the stratosphere.
Different sources of N2O have different ratios of 14N : 15N.
The Lewis (electron dot) structure of the dinitrogen monoxide molecule can be represented as:
Outline why ozone in the stratosphere is important.
Dinitrogen monoxide in the stratosphere is converted to nitrogen monoxide, NO (g).
Write two equations to show how NO (g) catalyses the decomposition of ozone.
State one analytical technique that could be used to determine the ratio of 14N : 15N.
A sample of gas was enriched to contain 2 % by mass of 15N with the remainder being 14N.
Calculate the relative molecular mass of the resulting N2O.
Predict, giving two reasons, how the first ionization energy of 15N compares with that of 14N.
Explain why the first ionization energy of nitrogen is greater than both carbon and oxygen.
Nitrogen and carbon:
Nitrogen and oxygen:
State what the presence of alternative Lewis structures shows about the nature of the bonding in the molecule.
State, giving a reason, the shape of the dinitrogen monoxide molecule.
Deduce the hybridization of the central nitrogen atom in the molecule.
Markscheme
absorbs UV/ultraviolet light «of longer wavelength than absorbed by O2» [✔]
NO (g) + O3 (g) → NO2 (g) + O2 (g) [✔]
NO2 (g) + O3 (g) → NO (g) + 2O2 (g) [✔]
Note: Ignore radical signs.
Accept equilibrium arrows.
Award [1 max] for NO2 (g) + O (g) → NO (g) + O2 (g).
mass spectrometry/MS [✔]
« =» 14.02 [✔]
«Mr = (14.02 × 2) + 16.00 =» 44.04 [✔]
Any two:
same AND have same nuclear charge /number of protons/Zeff [✔]
same AND neutrons do not affect attraction/ionization energy/Zeff
OR
same AND neutrons have no charge [✔]
same AND same attraction for «outer» electrons [✔]
same AND have same electronic configuration/shielding [✔]
Note: Accept “almost the same”.
“Same” only needs to be stated once.
Nitrogen and carbon:
N has greater nuclear charge/«one» more proton «and electrons both lost from singly filled p-orbitals» [✔]
Nitrogen and oxygen:
O has a doubly filled «p-»orbital
OR
N has only singly occupied «p-»orbitals [✔]
Note: Accept “greater e– - e- repulsion in O” or “lower e– - e- repulsion in N”.
Accept box annotation of electrons for M2.
delocalization
OR
delocalized π-electrons [✔]
Note: Accept “resonance”.
linear AND 2 electron domains
OR
linear AND 2 regions of electron density [✔]
Note: Accept “two bonds AND no lone pairs” for reason.
sp [✔]
Examiners report
Candidates sometimes failed to identify how ozone works in chemical terms, referring to protects/deflects, i.e., the consequence rather than the mechanism.
Many candidates recalled the first equation for NO catalyzed decomposition of ozone only. Some considered other radical species.
All candidates, with very few exceptions, answered this correctly.
Most candidates were able to calculate the accurate mass of N2O, though quite a few candidates just calculated the mass of N and didn’t apply it to N2O, losing an accessible mark.
Many students realized that neutrons had no charge and could not affect IE significantly, but many others struggled a lot with this question since they considered that 15N would have a higher IE because they considered the greater mass of the nucleus would result in an increase of attraction of the electrons.
Mixed responses here; the explanation of higher IE for N with respect to C was less well explained, though it should have been the easiest. It was good to see that most candidates could explain the difference in IE of N and O, either mentioning paired/unpaired electrons or drawing box diagrams.
Most candidates identified resonance for this given Lewis representation.
Though quite a number of candidates suggested a linear shape correctly, they often failed to give a complete correct explanation, just mentioning the absence of lone pairs but not two bonds, instead of referring to electron domains.
Hybridisation of the N atom was correct in most cases.
Iron may be extracted from iron (II) sulfide, FeS.
Iron (II) sulfide, FeS, is ionically bonded.
The first step in the extraction of iron from iron (II) sulfide is to roast it in air to form iron (III) oxide and sulfur dioxide.
Outline why metals, like iron, can conduct electricity.
Justify why sulfur is classified as a non-metal by giving two of its chemical properties.
Sketch the first eight successive ionisation energies of sulfur.
Describe the bonding in this type of solid.
State a technique that could be used to determine the crystal structure of the solid compound.
State the full electron configuration of the sulfide ion.
Outline, in terms of their electronic structures, why the ionic radius of the sulfide ion is greater than that of the oxide ion.
Suggest why chemists find it convenient to classify bonding into ionic, covalent and metallic.
Write the equation for this reaction.
Deduce the change in the oxidation state of sulfur.
Suggest why this process might raise environmental concerns.
Explain why the addition of small amounts of carbon to iron makes the metal harder.
Markscheme
mobile/delocalized «sea of» electrons
Any two of:
forms acidic oxides «rather than basic oxides» ✔
forms covalent/bonds compounds «with other non-metals» ✔
forms anions «rather than cations» ✔
behaves as an oxidizing agent «rather than a reducing agent» ✔
Award [1 max] for 2 correct non-chemical properties such as non-conductor, high ionisation energy, high electronegativity, low electron affinity if no marks for chemical properties are awarded.
two regions of small increases AND a large increase between them✔
large increase from 6th to 7th ✔
Accept line/curve showing these trends.
electrostatic attraction ✔
between oppositely charged ions/between Fe2+ and S2− ✔
X-ray crystallography ✔
1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 ✔
Do not accept “[Ne] 3s2 3p6”.
«valence» electrons further from nucleus/extra electron shell/ electrons in third/3s/3p level «not second/2s/2p»✔
Accept 2,8 (for O2–) and 2,8,8 (for S2–)
allows them to explain the properties of different compounds/substances
OR
enables them to generalise about substances
OR
enables them to make predictions ✔
Accept other valid answers.
4FeS(s) + 7O2(g) → 2Fe2O3(s) + 4SO2(g) ✔
Accept any correct ratio.
+6
OR
−2 to +4 ✔
Accept “6/VI”.
Accept “−II, 4//IV”.
Do not accept 2- to 4+.
sulfur dioxide/SO2 causes acid rain ✔
Accept sulfur dioxide/SO2/dust causes respiratory problems
Do not accept just “causes respiratory problems” or “causes acid rain”.
disrupts the regular arrangement «of iron atoms/ions»
OR
carbon different size «to iron atoms/ions» ✔
prevents layers/atoms sliding over each other ✔