• Syllabus

A: Materials

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Sub sections and their related questions

A.1 Materials science introduction

• 15M.2.sl.TZ2.3c: Aluminium can also be obtained by electrolysis. Suggest one reason why aluminium is often used...
• 10M.3.sl.TZ1.C1a: Explain why iron is obtained from its ores using chemical reducing agents but aluminium is...
• 10M.3.sl.TZ1.C1b: Both carbon monoxide and hydrogen can be used to reduce iron ores. State the equations for the...
• 10M.3.sl.TZ1.C1c: Explain why much of the iron produced in a blast furnace is converted into steel.
• 10M.3.sl.TZ1.C1d: State the materials used for the positive and negative electrodes in the production of aluminium...
• 16M.3.sl.TZ0.5: Describe how the structures of ceramics differ from those of metals.
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.3a: Magnesium oxide, MgO, and silicon carbide, SiC, are examples of ceramic materials. State the name...
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.3b: Predict the predominant type of bonding for a binary compound AB in which the electronegativity...
• 17M.3.sl.TZ1.6a: Determine the type of bond present in SbBr3, showing your method. Use sections 8 and 29 of the...
• 17M.3.sl.TZ1.6b: Lanthanum has a similar electronegativity to group 2 metals. Explain, in terms of bonding and...
• 17M.3.sl.TZ2.3a: State the two distinct phases of a composite.
• 17M.3.sl.TZ2.3b: Identify the methods of assembling nanocomposites by completing the table.
• 17N.3.sl.TZ0.4a: Outline the composition of an alloy and a composite.
• 17N.3.sl.TZ0.4b.ii: At present, composite fillings are more expensive than amalgam fillings. Suggest why a patient...
• 18M.3.sl.TZ1.3a: Discuss, in terms of its structure, why an aluminium saucepan is impermeable to water.
• 18M.3.sl.TZ1.3b.i: State the name given to a material composed of two distinct solid phases.
• 18M.3.sl.TZ1.4e: Suggest why there are so many different ways in which plastics can be classified. HDPE can, for...
• 18M.3.sl.TZ2.3a: ICP-OES/MS can be used to analyse alloys and composites. Distinguish between alloys and composites.
• 18M.3.sl.TZ2.4c: Civilizations are often characterized by the materials they use. Suggest an advantage polymers...

A.2 Metals and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectroscopy

• 15M.3.sl.TZ1.7a.i: Magnetite, Fe3O4, is a common ore of iron. Calculate the average oxidation state of iron in the...
• 15M.3.sl.TZ1.7a.ii: State the equation for the reduction of this ore to iron with carbon monoxide.
• 15M.3.sl.TZ1.7a.iii: Outline why iron is obtained from its ores using chemical reducing agents but aluminium is...
• 15M.3.sl.TZ2.10a: State an equation for the reaction by which iron (III) oxide, Fe2O3, is reduced to iron in the...
• 14M.2.hl.TZ2.8f: (i)     Describe the bonding present in magnesium metal.       (ii)     Suggest why magnesium...
• 14M.3.sl.TZ2.7a: (i)     Describe the production of aluminium from its purified ore. Explain the role of cryolite...
• 14M.3.sl.TZ2.7b: (i)     State one advantage of using an alloy rather than the pure metal.     (ii)     Outline...
• 14M.3.sl.TZ2.7c: Suggest one possible environmental impact that can result from the large-scale production of...
• 14M.3.sl.TZ2.8a: (i)     State equations for the reactions that occur at each electrode in a lead-acid battery...
• 14M.3.sl.TZ2.8b: Another source of power for portable devices is the fuel cell. Compare fuel cells with lead-acid...
• 14M.3.sl.TZ2.9a: State a balanced equation for the thermal cracking of...
• 14N.3.hl.TZ0.9a: (i)     Suggest why the aluminium oxide is dissolved in molten cryolite.     (ii)     Deduce...
• 14N.3.hl.TZ0.9b: (i)     Outline why aluminium is alloyed with copper and magnesium when used to construct...
• 14N.3.sl.TZ0.8a: Deduce an equation for the discharge of the ions at each electrode.   Positive electrode...
• 14N.3.sl.TZ0.8b: (i)     Outline why aluminium is alloyed with copper and magnesium when used to construct...
• 13N.3.hl.TZ0.10c: The properties of a metal can be altered by alloying or heat treatment. Explain why alloying can...
• 13N.3.sl.TZ0.8e.i: Explain why alloying can modify the structure and properties of a metal.
• 13M.3.hl.TZ1.C1a: State how a low operating temperature is achieved when aluminium oxide is electrolysed.
• 13M.3.sl.TZ1.C1b: Describe what is meant by the term alloy.
• 13M.3.sl.TZ1.C1c: State the main improvement made to the properties of aluminium when it is alloyed.
• 13M.3.sl.TZ2.C1a.i: Explain how pure aluminium oxide is obtained from bauxite.
• 13M.3.sl.TZ2.C1a.ii: Explain why sodium hexafluoroaluminate,...
• 13M.3.sl.TZ2.C1a.iii: State the half-equations for the reactions taking place at the positive and negative electrodes...
• 13M.3.sl.TZ2.C1b: Before the introduction of the electrolytic method by Hall and Héroult in the 1880s it was very...
• 09N.3.sl.TZ0.C1a.i: Explain why the molten electrolyte also contains cryolite.
• 09N.3.sl.TZ0.C1a.ii: State a half-equation for the reaction at the negative electrode (cathode).
• 09N.3.sl.TZ0.C1a.iii: Oxygen is produced at the positive electrode (anode). State the name of another gas produced at...
• 09N.3.sl.TZ0.C1b.i: State two properties of aluminium that make it suitable for use as an overhead electric cable.
• 09N.3.sl.TZ0.C1b.ii: Alloys of aluminium with nickel are used to make engine parts. Explain, by referring to the...
• 09M.3.sl.TZ2.C1a: Describe an alloy.
• 09M.3.sl.TZ2.C1b: Explain how alloying can modify the structure and properties of metals.
• 11M.3.sl.TZ2.C1a.i: Explain the function of the molten cryolite.
• 11M.3.sl.TZ2.C1a.ii: State the half-equations for the reactions that take place at each electrode. Positive electrode...
• 11M.3.sl.TZ2.C1b: Outline two different ways that carbon dioxide may be produced during the production of aluminium.
• 11N.3.sl.TZ0.C1a.i: State the equation for the reaction of coke with air in the blast furnace.
• 11N.3.sl.TZ0.C1a.ii: The product formed in part (i) reacts with coke to produce carbon monoxide. Explain, giving an...
• 16M.3.sl.TZ0.3b: Predict the magnetic properties of Fe2O3 and Al2O3 in terms of the electron structure of the...
• 16M.3.sl.TZ0.3c: Molten alumina, Al2O3(l), was electrolysed by passing 2.00×106 C through the cell. Calculate the...
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.4a: Calculate the charge, in coulombs, passed during the...
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.4b: Calculate the amount, in mol, of electrons passed using section 2 of the data booklet.
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.4c: Calculate the mass of indium deposited by one mole of electrons.
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.4d: Calculate the number of moles of electrons required to deposit one mole of indium. Relative...
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.4e: Deduce the charge on the indium ion and the formula of indium sulfate.
• 17M.3.sl.TZ1.7a: State why lanthanum cannot be produced by reducing its oxide with carbon.
• 17M.3.sl.TZ1.7b: Calculate the current (I), in A, required to produce 1.00 kg of lanthanum metal per hour. Use the...
• 17M.3.sl.TZ1.9c: Antimony and its compounds are toxic, so it is important to check that the catalyst is removed...
• 17M.3.hl.TZ1.10a: Outline the nature of the plasma state and how it is produced in ICP-MS.
• 17M.3.sl.TZ2.5b.i: Nickel is also used as a catalyst. It is processed from an ore until nickel(II) chloride solution...
• 17M.3.sl.TZ2.5c: Another method of obtaining nickel is by electrolysis of a nickel(II) chloride...
• 17M.3.sl.TZ2.6b: Metal impurities during the production of LCoS can be analysed using ICP-MS. Each metal has a...
• 17M.3.hl.TZ2.5c.i: Rhodium is paramagnetic with an electron configuration of [Kr] 5s14d8. Explain, in terms of...
• 17N.3.sl.TZ0.4b.i: Outline why an alloy is usually harder than its components by referring to its structure.
• 17N.3.sl.TZ0.4c: Explain how Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) Spectroscopy could be used to determine the...
• 18M.3.sl.TZ1.4c.ii: Trace amounts of metal from the catalysts used in the production of HDPE sometimes remain in the...
• 18M.3.sl.TZ1.5: Aluminium is produced by the electrolysis of a molten electrolyte containing bauxite. Determine...
• 18M.3.sl.TZ2.3b: ICP-MS is a reference mode for analysis. The following correlation graphs between ICP-OES and...
• 18M.3.sl.TZ2.3c.i: Identify the purpose of each graph.  
• 18M.3.sl.TZ2.3c.ii: Calculate, to four significant figures, the concentration, in μg kg−1, of vanadium in oil giving...

A.3 Catalysts

• 15M.2.hl.TZ1.3d: Outline the economic importance of using a catalyst in the Contact process.
• 14N.2.hl.TZ0.10d: Transition metals and their compounds often catalyse reactions. The catalyzed decomposition of...
• 14N.3.sl.TZ0.9a: State the type of catalysis occurring in reaction I.
• 14N.3.sl.TZ0.9b: Outline the mechanism by which each catalyst lowers the activation energy in the reactions above,...
• 13N.3.sl.TZ0.9b.i: Identify the role of the zeolite in the reaction.
• 13N.3.sl.TZ0.9b.ii: Suggest an explanation for its efficiency in favouring the production of the crystalline polymer.
• 13M.3.sl.TZ1.C2c: Catalytic cracking uses silica as a heterogeneous catalyst. Explain the mode of action of a...
• 13M.3.sl.TZ1.C2d: State one advantage of using a heterogeneous catalyst rather than a homogeneous catalyst.
• 13M.3.sl.TZ1.C2e: Discuss two factors that need to be considered when choosing a catalyst for a process.
• 13M.3.sl.TZ2.C2a: Distinguish between a homogeneous and a heterogeneous catalyst.
• 13M.3.sl.TZ2.C2b: Other than cost, state one advantage and one disadvantage of using a homogeneous catalyst rather...
• 13M.3.sl.TZ2.C2c: Other than selectivity and cost, list three factors which should be considered when choosing a...
• 12N.3.sl.TZ0.C4: State three factors which need to be considered when an industrial catalyst is chosen. In...
• 09N.3.sl.TZ0.C3c.i: Suggest two reasons why they are effective heterogeneous catalysts.
• 10M.3.sl.TZ1.C3a: State the difference between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts.
• 10M.3.sl.TZ1.C3b: State one advantage and one disadvantage that homogeneous catalysts have over heterogeneous...
• 10M.3.sl.TZ1.C3c: Apart from their selectivity to form the required product and their cost, discuss two other...
• 09M.3.hl.TZ2.E2b: (i)     Deduce the type of catalysis that occurs. (ii)     Outline why the depletion of ozone is...
• 11M.3.sl.TZ1.C2b.i: Explain how these differ from homogeneous catalysts.
• 11M.3.sl.TZ1.C2b.ii: Identify one disadvantage of using heterogeneous catalysts.
• 11M.3.sl.TZ2.C2a: Distinguish between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts.
• 11M.3.sl.TZ2.C2c: Discuss two factors which need to be considered when selecting a catalyst for a particular...
• 16M.3.sl.TZ0.4b: Explain how zeolites act as selective catalysts.
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.5a: Explain, with reference to their structure, the great selectivity of zeolites as catalysts.
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.5b: Nanocatalysts play an essential role in the manufacture of industrial chemicals. (i) Describe...
• 17M.3.sl.TZ1.9a: Catalysts reduce the activation energy. Outline how homogeneous catalysts are involved in the...
• 17M.3.sl.TZ1.9b: Suggest why it is important to know how catalysts function.
• 17M.3.sl.TZ2.5a: In a catalytic converter, carbon monoxide is converted to carbon dioxide. Outline the process for...
• 17N.3.sl.TZ0.5: Catalysts can take many forms and are used in many industrial processes. Suggest two reasons why...
• 18M.3.sl.TZ1.4c.i: The production of HDPE involves the use of homogeneous catalysts. Outline how homogeneous...
• 18M.3.sl.TZ2.3c.iii: Vanadium(V) oxide is used as the catalyst in the conversion of sulfur dioxide to sulfur...

A.4 Liquid crystals

• 15M.3.hl.TZ1.10c: Describe and explain, in molecular terms, the workings of a twisted nematic liquid crystal.
• 15M.3.hl.TZ2.15a: Explain how the structure of biphenyl nitriles makes them suitable for use in liquid-crystal...
• 15M.3.sl.TZ1.8a: The diagram below shows eight molecules in the liquid state. Suggest, with a diagram, a possible...
• 15M.3.sl.TZ1.8b.i: Suggest, with reference to the structure, why the molecule is able to change orientation in an...
• 15M.3.sl.TZ1.8b.ii: Suggest how the C5H11 chain contributes to the liquid-crystal properties of the compound.
• 15M.3.sl.TZ1.8b.iii: Explain why a liquid-crystal device may be unreliable at low temperatures.
• 15M.3.sl.TZ2.12a: Identify the structural feature of cholesteryl benzoate which makes it suitable for use as a...
• 15M.3.sl.TZ2.12b: Suggest the essential feature a liquid-crystal molecule must have so that the display can be...
• 14M.3.hl.TZ2.13a: Describe the meaning of the term liquid crystal.
• 14M.3.hl.TZ2.13b: List two properties needed for a substance to be used in a liquid-crystal display.
• 14M.3.sl.TZ1.10a: (i)     Describe the meaning of the term liquid crystals and state which of the representations...
• 14M.3.sl.TZ1.10b: (i)     State one difference between thermotropic and lyotropic liquid crystals.       (ii)  ...
• 14N.3.hl.TZ0.12b: When a liquid-crystal display is warmed with a hairdryer, the display loses its clarity and may...
• 14N.3.hl.TZ0.12a: Describe the meaning of the term liquid crystals.
• 14N.3.sl.TZ0.11a: Describe the meaning of the term liquid crystals.
• 14N.3.sl.TZ0.11b: When a liquid-crystal display is warmed with a hairdryer, the display loses its clarity and may...
• 13N.3.hl.TZ0.12a: State what the observer would see if the liquid crystal was not present and there was no voltage...
• 13N.3.hl.TZ0.12b.i: Explain how the addition of a liquid crystal to the cell changes what the observer sees.
• 13N.3.hl.TZ0.12b.ii: Explain how the application of an electric field between the electrodes,...
• 13N.3.hl.TZ0.12c: The molecule below has liquid-crystal display properties. Suggest two reasons why the molecule...
• 13N.3.sl.TZ0.10: Liquid-crystal displays are used in many electronic appliances. The molecule below has...
• 13M.2.sl.TZ1.8b.ii: Suggest what would happen to the pH of the solution as the reaction proceeds.
• 13M.3.sl.TZ1.C3a: State the property of the liquid-crystal molecules that allows them to align when a voltage is...
• 13M.3.sl.TZ1.C3b: List two substances that can behave as liquid crystals.
• 13M.3.sl.TZ1.C3c: Distinguish between thermotropic and lyotropic liquid crystals.   Thermotropic liquid...
• 09N.3.hl.TZ0.C5a: Explain how the three different parts of the molecule contribute to the properties of the...
• 09N.3.hl.TZ0.C5b: Describe and explain in molecular terms the workings of a twisted nematic liquid crystal.
• 10M.3.hl.TZ1.C2e: Kevlar is an example of a lyotropic liquid crystal. Outline what is meant by lyotropic liquid...
• 10M.3.hl.TZ2.C3: (a)     State one other example of a lyotropic liquid crystal and describe the difference between...
• 10M.3.sl.TZ2.C4: Detergents are one example of lyotropic liquid crystals. State one other example of a lyotropic...
• 09M.3.sl.TZ1.C2a: Describe the meaning of the term liquid crystals. State and explain which diagram, I or II,...
• 09M.3.sl.TZ1.C2b: Distinguish between thermotropic and lyotropic liquid crystals and state one example of each type.
• 09M.3.sl.TZ1.C2c: Discuss the properties needed for a substance to be used in liquid crystal displays.
• 09M.3.sl.TZ2.C4a: Compare the positional and directional order in a crystalline solid, nematic phase liquid crystal...
• 11M.3.sl.TZ2.C3a: Describe the liquid-crystal state, in terms of molecular arrangement, and explain what happens as...
• 11M.3.sl.TZ2.C3b: Discuss three properties a substance should have if it is to be used in liquid-crystal displays.
• 12M.3.hl.TZ1.C4a: State the properties that a molecule, such as Kevlar, must have in order to enable it to behave...
• 12M.3.hl.TZ1.C4b: Discuss the additional properties that a substance must have to make it suitable for commercial...
• 12M.3.hl.TZ1.C4c: Explain what is meant by the term lyotropic.
• 12M.3.sl.TZ1.C3d: One product that is made from crude oil is the chemical feedstock that can be used to synthesize...
• 12M.3.hl.TZ2.C3a: Distinguish between thermotropic liquid crystals and lyotropic liquid...
• 12M.3.hl.TZ2.C3b: Two substances that can be used in liquid crystals are commonly called PAA (4-azoxydianisole) and...
• 12M.3.hl.TZ2.C3c: Explain the workings of liquid crystals made up of compounds such as 5CB in liquid-crystal displays.
• 11N.3.sl.TZ0.C4a: Describe the nematic liquid-crystal phase in terms of the arrangement of the molecules.
• 11N.3.sl.TZ0.C4b: Explain the effect of increasing the temperature on the nematic liquid crystal.
• 16M.3.sl.TZ0.6a: Suggest how changing the size or shape of the hydrocarbon chain would affect the molecule’s...
• 16M.3.sl.TZ0.6b: Explain why the nitrile group enables these molecules to be used in liquid-crystal displays (LCDs).
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.7a: Outline how a lyotropic liquid crystal differs from a thermotropic liquid crystal.
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.7b: Explain the effect of increasing the temperature of a nematic liquid crystal on its directional...
• 17M.3.sl.TZ2.6a: Two important properties of a liquid crystal molecule are being a polar molecule and having a...
• 17N.3.sl.TZ0.7a: Outline two properties a substance should have to be used as liquid-crystal in a liquid-crystal...
• 18M.3.hl.TZ2.6b: MWCNT are very small in size and can greatly increase switching speeds in a liquid crystal...
• 18M.3.sl.TZ1.3b.iv: State the property of carbon nanotubes that enables them to form a nematic liquid crystal phase.
• 18M.3.sl.TZ1.4a: Both of these are thermoplastic polymers. Outline what this term means.
• 18M.3.sl.TZ2.5b: Discuss three properties a substance should have to be suitable for use in liquid crystal displays.

A.5 Polymers

• 15M.3.sl.TZ1.10a.i: Identify the two functional groups in the monomer from which this polymer is manufactured.
• 15M.3.sl.TZ1.10a.ii: An expanded form of the plastic is often used in packaging. Describe how this is manufactured.
• 15M.3.sl.TZ1.10b: Discuss two advantages and one disadvantage of using the expanded form as a packaging...
• 14M.3.hl.TZ2.12a: (i)     Other than density, state two differences in the physical properties of HDPE and...
• 14M.3.hl.TZ2.12b: State the conditions required to produce HDPE and LDPE and the name of each type of mechanism...
• 14M.3.sl.TZ2.9b: (i)     Other than density, state two differences in the physical properties of HDPE and...
• 14M.3.sl.TZ2.9c: It has been said that bitumen and heavy fuel oils are too valuable a resource to use for road...
• 13N.3.hl.TZ0.11d.i: Draw the structure of the isotactic form of polyacrylonitrile showing three repeating units.
• 13N.3.hl.TZ0.11d.ii: Explain why the isotactic form is more suitable for the manufacture of strong fibres.
• 13N.3.sl.TZ0.9a.i: Polyacrylonitrile is similar to polypropene and can exist in two forms.   Draw the structure of...
• 13N.3.sl.TZ0.9a.ii: Polyacrylonitrile is similar to polypropene and can exist in two forms.   Explain why the...
• 13M.3.sl.TZ1.C4a: State the difference in the structure of the two polymers.   Isotactic:     Atactic:
• 13M.3.sl.TZ1.C4b: Explain how the difference in structure results in the different properties of isotactic and...
• 13M.3.sl.TZ2.C3a.i: Describe how the two forms differ in their chemical structure.
• 13M.3.sl.TZ2.C3a.ii: Explain in terms of their structures how the flexibility of the two forms of poly(ethene) differ.
• 13M.3.sl.TZ2.C3b.i: Describe why pentane is sometimes added during the formation ofpoly(phenylethene), also known as...
• 13M.3.sl.TZ2.C3b.ii: State one use for the product formed from this process.
• 12N.3.sl.TZ0.C3a: (i)     Strongest intermolecular forces: (ii)     Highest density: (iii)     Greatest flexibility:
• 09N.3.sl.TZ0.C2a: Explain why PVC is less flexible than polyethene.
• 09N.3.sl.TZ0.C2b: State how PVC can be made more flexible during its manufacture and explain the increase in...
• 09N.3.sl.TZ0.C2c: PVC can exist in isotactic and atactic forms. Draw the structure of the isotactic form showing a...
• 10M.3.sl.TZ1.C2a: Use high-density poly(ethene) and low-density poly(ethene) as examples to explain the difference...
• 10M.3.sl.TZ1.C2b: During the formation of poly(styrene), a volatile hydrocarbon such as pentane is often added....
• 10M.3.sl.TZ2.C3: (a)     For two different addition polymers, describe and explain one way in which the properties...
• 09M.3.hl.TZ2.C4a: State the type of mechanism occurring in the manufacture of low-density poly(ethene).
• 11M.3.hl.TZ1.C2b: Ethene is one of the major products of this process and much of it is converted to polyethene...
• 11M.3.sl.TZ1.C2c: Many of the compounds produced by cracking are used in the manufacture of addition polymers....
• 11M.3.sl.TZ1.C2d: The polymers often have other substances added to modify their properties. One group of additives...
• 11M.3.sl.TZ1.E1a: State an equation that shows why rain water is naturally acidic.
• 12M.3.hl.TZ1.C3a: Outline the difference in the way in which polymerization occurs, stating a specific example of a...
• 12M.3.hl.TZ1.C3b: Polymers can either soften when heated or remain rigid until they decompose or combust. Other...
• 12M.2.hl.TZ2.10a.ii: Deduce the structure of the simplest repeating unit of the polymer formed from the reaction...
• 12M.3.sl.TZ2.C3a: Ethene can be polymerized to form high-density poly(ethene), HDPE, or low-density poly(ethene),...
• 12M.3.sl.TZ2.C3b: (i)     The repeating unit of poly(propene) has the...
• 11N.3.sl.TZ0.C2a: Titanium compounds are used as catalysts in the manufacture of high-density polyethene (HDPE)....
• 11N.3.sl.TZ0.C2b: Describe a structural feature of low-density polyethene (LDPE) that explains why LDPE has a...
• 11N.3.sl.TZ0.E1a: Nitrogen dioxide is formed in a two-stage process. Describe one anthropogenic (man-made) source...
• 16M.3.sl.TZ0.7a: Sketch the atactic form of polychloroethene showing four units.
• 16M.3.sl.TZ0.7b: (i) Explain, in molecular terms, why PVC becomes more flexible and softer when a plasticizer is...
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.6a: (i) Draw the structure of 2-methylpropene. (ii) Deduce the repeating unit of poly(2-methylpropene).
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.6b: Deduce the percentage atom economy for polymerization of 2-methylpropene.
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.6c: (i) Suggest why incomplete combustion of plastic, such as polyvinyl chloride, is common in...
• 17M.3.sl.TZ1.10a: Below are the IR spectra of two plastics (A and B); one is PETE, the other is low density...
• 17M.3.sl.TZ1.10b.i: Describe the difference in their structures.
• 17M.3.sl.TZ1.10b.ii: Explain why the difference in their structures affects their melting points.
• 17M.3.sl.TZ2.3c.i: Explain how the structure of plasticizers enables them to soften PVC.
• 17M.3.sl.TZ2.3c.ii: Suggest a reason why nanoparticles can better anchor plasticizers in the polymer.
• 17M.3.hl.TZ2.3c: Estimate the atom economy of this first step.
• 17N.3.sl.TZ0.7b.i: Describe how the structures of LDPE and HDPE affect one mechanical property of the plastics.
• 18M.3.hl.TZ1.4c.ii: Deduce, giving a reason, whether the atom economy of a condensation polymerization, such as this,...
• 18M.3.sl.TZ1.4a: Both of these are thermoplastic polymers. Outline what this term means.
• 18M.3.sl.TZ1.4b.i: Compare and contrast the structures of HDPE and LDPE.
• 18M.3.sl.TZ1.4b.ii: State one way in which a physical property of HDPE, other than density, differs from that of LDPE...
• 18M.3.sl.TZ2.4a: Sketch four repeating units of the polymer to show atactic and isotactic polypropene.

A.6 Nanotechnology

• 15M.3.sl.TZ1.9a: Outline the technique used to manipulate the atoms in this way.
• 15M.3.sl.TZ1.9b: The atomic radius of xenon is \(1.36 \times {10^{ - 10}}{\text{ m}}\). Estimate the approximate...
• 15M.3.sl.TZ2.13b: Distinguish between the arrangement of carbon atoms at the sides and at the ends of carbon...
• 15M.3.sl.TZ2.13c: Outline why bundles of carbon nanotubes have high tensile strength.
• 15M.3.sl.TZ2.13d: Discuss two concerns regarding the development of nanotechnology.
• 14N.3.sl.TZ0.12a: Define the term nanotechnology.
• 14N.3.sl.TZ0.12b: Discuss two concerns about its development and use.
• 13N.3.sl.TZ0.9c.i: Outline the structure of the open carbon nanotubes.
• 13N.3.sl.TZ0.9c.ii: State a property of these nanotubes that makes them suitable for this use.
• 10N.3.sl.TZ0.C3a: Define the term nanotechnology, and state why it is of interest to chemists.
• 10N.3.sl.TZ0.C3b: (i)     Describe the structure of carbon nanotubes. (ii)     State one physical property of...
• 10N.3.sl.TZ0.C3c: Suggest two concerns about the use of nanotechnology.
• 09N.3.sl.TZ0.C3a: Describe these ‘test-tubes’ with reference to the structures of carbon allotropes.
• 09N.3.sl.TZ0.C3b: These tubes are believed to be stronger than steel. Explain the strength of these ‘test-tubes’ on...
• 09N.3.sl.TZ0.C3c.ii: State one potential concern associated with the use of carbon nanotubes.
• 10M.3.sl.TZ2.C1a: State the size range of structures which are involved in nanotechnology.
• 10M.3.sl.TZ2.C1c: Discuss two implications of nanotechnology.
• 09M.3.sl.TZ1.C1b: After the discovery of \({{\text{C}}_{60}}\), chemists discovered carbon nanotubes. Describe the...
• 09M.3.sl.TZ1.C1c: Nanotechnology could provide new solutions for developing countries where basic services such as...
• 11M.3.sl.TZ1.C1a.i: State the scale at which nanotechnology takes place and outline the importance of working at this...
• 11M.3.sl.TZ1.C1a.ii: State one public concern regarding the development of nanotechnology.
• 11M.3.sl.TZ1.C1b: One development has been the production of nanotubes. Describe the way in which the arrangement...
• 16M.3.sl.TZ0.4a: Identify one concern of using nanoscale catalysts.
• 16M.3.sl.TZ0.4c: Carbon nanotubes, which can be produced by the HIPCO process, show great potential as...
• 16N.3.sl.TZ0.5b: Nanocatalysts play an essential role in the manufacture of industrial chemicals. (i) Describe...
• 17M.3.sl.TZ1.8a: State the major advantage that nanoparticles have in these applications.
• 17M.3.sl.TZ1.8b: Suggest why nanoparticles need to be handled with care.
• 17N.3.sl.TZ0.6a: State equations for the formation of iron nanoparticles and carbon atoms from Fe(CO)5 in the...
• 17N.3.sl.TZ0.6b: Outline why the iron nanoparticle catalysts produced by the HIPCO process are more efficient than...
• 17N.3.sl.TZ0.6c: Discuss one possible risk associated with the use of nanotechnology.
• 18M.3.sl.TZ1.3b.ii: State one physical property of HDPE that will be affected by the incorporation of carbon nanotubes.
• 18M.3.sl.TZ1.3b.iii: Describe how carbon nanotubes are produced by chemical vapour deposition (CVD).
• 18M.3.sl.TZ2.5a: State the source of carbon for MWCNT produced by arc discharge and by CVD.

A.7 Environmental impact—plastics

• 15M.3.sl.TZ1.10b: Discuss two advantages and one disadvantage of using the expanded form as a packaging...
• 15M.3.sl.TZ2.11b: A lot of feedstock is used in the production of plastics. Discuss two advantages and one...
• 09N.3.sl.TZ0.E4b: Suggest why some biodegradable plastics do not decompose in landfill sites.
• 11N.3.sl.TZ0.C2c: State one environmental impact of the disposal of these polyethenes by using incineration.
• 16M.3.sl.TZ0.7c: Suggest an environmental issue associated with the use of PVC.
• 17N.3.sl.TZ0.7b.ii: One of the two infrared (IR) spectra is that of polyethene and the other of polytetrafluoroethene...
• 17N.3.sl.TZ0.7c: Many plastics used to be incinerated. Deduce an equation for the complete combustion of two...
• 18M.3.sl.TZ1.4d: Suggest two of the major obstacles, other than collection and economic factors, which have to be...
• 18M.3.sl.TZ2.4b.i: State the chemical reason why plastics do not degrade easily.
• 18M.3.sl.TZ2.4b.ii: Compare two ways in which recycling differs from reusing plastics.

A.8 Superconducting metals and X-ray crystallography (HL only)

• 16M.3.hl.TZ0.3d: (i) Outline the cause of electrical resistance in metallic conductors. (ii) The resistance of...
• 16M.3.hl.TZ0.3e: (i) Polonium metal has a simple cubic structure. Construct a unit cell diagram and state the...
• 16N.3.hl.TZ0.8a: (i) The diagram below shows the diffraction of two X-ray beams, y and z of wavelength λ, shining...
• 16N.3.hl.TZ0.8b: (i) The mass of one unit cell of chromium metal is 17.28 × 10−23 g. Calculate the number of unit...
• 16N.3.hl.TZ0.9a: Describe the Meissner effect.
• 16N.3.hl.TZ0.9b: Outline one difference between type 1 and type 2 superconductors.
• 17M.3.hl.TZ1.8a: Lanthanum has a hexagonal close packed (hcp) crystal structure. State the coordination number of...
• 17M.3.hl.TZ1.8b: Lanthanum becomes superconducting below 5 K. Explain, in terms of Bardeen–Cooper–Schrieffer (BCS)...
• 17M.3.hl.TZ1.8c: Outline why superconductivity only occurs at low temperatures.
• 17M.3.hl.TZ2.5c.ii: Rhodium is a type 1 superconductor. Sketch graphs of resistance against temperature for a...
• 17M.3.hl.TZ2.5c.iii: Contrast type 1 and type 2 superconductors by referring to three differences between them.
• 17N.3.hl.TZ0.6b: Explain why Type 2 superconductors are generally more useful than Type 1.
• 17N.3.hl.TZ0.8a: Calculate the total number of cobalt atoms within its unit cell.
• 17N.3.hl.TZ0.8b.i: The atomic radius, r, of cobalt is 1.18 × 10–8 cm. Determine the edge length, in cm, of the unit...
• 17N.3.hl.TZ0.8b.ii: Determine a value for the density of cobalt, in g cm–3, using data from sections 2 and 6 of the...
• 18M.3.hl.TZ1.5b: The diagram illustrates the crystal structure of aluminium metal with the unit cell indicated....
• 18M.3.hl.TZ1.5c: When X-rays of wavelength 0.154 nm are directed at a crystal of aluminium, the first order...
• 18M.3.hl.TZ1.5d.i: Deduce what the shape of the graph indicates about aluminium.
• 18M.3.hl.TZ1.5d.ii: Outline why the resistance of aluminium increases above 1.2 K.
• 18M.3.hl.TZ2.4a.i: Deduce the number of atoms per unit cell in vanadium.
• 18M.3.hl.TZ2.4a.ii: Calculate the expected first order diffraction pattern angle, in degrees, if x-rays of wavelength...
• 18M.3.hl.TZ2.4a.iii: Calculate the average mass, in g, of a vanadium atom by using sections 2 and 6 of the data booklet.
• 18M.3.hl.TZ2.4a.iv: Determine the volume, in cm3, of a vanadium unit cell.
• 18M.3.hl.TZ2.4a.v: Determine the density, in g cm−3, of vanadium by using your answers to (a)(i), (a)(iii) and (a)(iv).

A.9 Condensation polymers (HL only)

• 15M.1.hl.TZ2.38: Which pairs of compounds can react together to undergo condensation polymerization...
• 15M.2.hl.TZ1.5e.i: A polyester can be formed when ethane-1,2-diol reacts with benzene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid. Deduce...
• 15M.2.hl.TZ1.5e.ii: State the type of polymerization that occurs.
• 14M.1.hl.TZ1.38: Which two compounds can form a polyester?
• 14M.3.hl.TZ1.10c: Kevlar® is a material used in bullet-proof vests. (i)     Deduce the products formed by a...
• 14N.1.hl.TZ0.38: Which combination of monomers produces a condensation polymer with the repeating unit...
• 13M.3.hl.TZ1.C5b.i: Draw the structures of the monomers that form polyethylene terephthalate.
• 13M.3.hl.TZ1.C5b.ii: Predict whether polyethylene terephthalate or isotactic poly(propene) has a higher melting point....
• 13M.3.hl.TZ2.C3b.i: Draw the structural formula of the repeating unit in Kevlar.
• 13M.3.hl.TZ2.C3b.ii: Explain how the long rigid chains in Kevlar are able to form cross-links to build up a...
• 12N.3.hl.TZ0.C4a: State the type of polymerization involved.
• 12N.3.hl.TZ0.C4b: (i)     Identify the strongest type of intermolecular force between the two molecules. (ii)   ...
• 12N.3.hl.TZ0.C4c: Kevlar is five times as strong as steel, partly due to its strong intermolecular forces. State...
• 12N.3.hl.TZ0.C4d: (i)     Suggest how the sulfuric acid is able to separate the Kevlar chains. (ii)     Evaluate...
• 10N.1.hl.TZ0.38: Which process can produce a polyester? A.     Addition polymerization of a dicarboxylic...
• 10M.3.hl.TZ1.C2d: Kevlar can be made by reacting 1,4-diaminobenzene,...
• 09M.3.hl.TZ1.C3b: Kevlar® is a lyotropic liquid crystal. Explain the strength of Kevlar® and its solubility in...
• 09M.3.hl.TZ2.C4c: Distinguish between addition and condensation polymers in terms of how the monomers react together.
• 09M.3.hl.TZ2.C4d: Describe and explain how the properties of condensation polymers depend on three structural...
• 11M.3.hl.TZ2.C3c.ii: Explain the strength of Kevlar in terms of its structure and bonding.
• 11M.3.hl.TZ2.C3c.iii: Explain why a bullet-proof vest made of Kevlar should be stored away from acids.
• 11N.3.hl.TZ0.C2b: Polyurethanes are made from dialcohol (diol) and diisocyanate monomers. By considering the...
• 11N.3.hl.TZ0.C2c: Kevlar is another example of a condensation polymer. Explain how the great strength of Kevlar...
• 16M.3.hl.TZ0.6b: (i) The monomers from which Kevlar® is produced are given below. Deduce the formula of the...
• 16N.3.hl.TZ0.6d: Fermentation of sugars from corn starch produces propane-1,3-diol, which can be polymerized with...
• 17M.3.hl.TZ1.9a: Deduce the repeating unit of the polymer and the other product of the reaction.
• 17M.3.hl.TZ1.9b: State the class of polymer to which PETE belongs.
• 17M.3.hl.TZ2.3c.ii: Suggest, giving one reason, whether this is an addition or condensation reaction.
• 17N.3.hl.TZ0.7b: Describe how the monomers of addition polymers and of condensation polymers differ.
• 17N.3.hl.TZ0.7c: Identify the type of intermolecular bonding that is responsible for Kevlar®’s strength.
• 18M.3.hl.TZ1.4c.i: Draw the structure of the monomer from which nylon-6 is produced by a condensation reaction.  
• 18M.3.hl.TZ2.5c.i: Distinguish between the manufacture of polyester and polyethene.

A.10 Environmental impact—heavy metals (HL only)

• 15M.3.hl.TZ1.17b.ii: Deduce the expression for the solubility product constant, \({K_{{\text{sp}}}}\), of calcium...
• 15M.3.hl.TZ1.17b.iii: The solubility product of calcium phosphate is...
• 14M.3.hl.TZ1.17a: State an expression for the solubility product constant, \({K_{{\text{sp}}}}\), for copper(II)...
• 14M.3.hl.TZ1.17b: The solubility product of copper(II) hydroxide is \(4.8 \times {10^{ - 20}}\) at a given...
• 14M.3.hl.TZ2.19a: State an ionic equation, including state symbols, for the reaction taking place when an aqueous...
• 14M.3.hl.TZ2.19b: The solubility product, \({K_{{\text{sp}}}}\), of lead(II) chloride is \(1.7 \times {10^{ - 5}}\)...
• 13N.3.hl.TZ0.20b.i: Determine the concentration of the magnesium and hydroxide ions in a saturated solution of...
• 13N.3.hl.TZ0.20b.ii: Deduce, with a reason, whether the pH of a saturated solution of aluminium hydroxide, at the same...
• 13M.3.hl.TZ1.E4a: State the expression for the solubility product constant, \({K_{{\text{sp}}}}\), of lead sulfate.
• 13M.3.hl.TZ1.E4b: Deduce why lead sulfate will not precipitate out of the water sample at these concentrations.
• 13M.3.hl.TZ1.E4c: Some magnesium sulfate is added to the water sample. Determine the increase in sulfate ion...
• 13M.3.hl.TZ2.E4b.i: The solubility product constant, \({K_{{\text{sp}}}}\), of cadmium(II) sulfide, CdS, is...
• 13M.3.hl.TZ2.E4b.ii: Explain how the addition of hydrogen sulfide gas can decrease the concentration of cadmium(II)...
• 13M.3.sl.TZ2.E4a: State an ionic equation, including the state symbols, to show how hydrogen sulfide gas,...
• 09N.3.hl.TZ0.E5a: Calculate the concentration of \({\text{P}}{{\text{b}}^{2 + }}\) ions in a saturated solution of...
• 09N.3.hl.TZ0.E5b: Explain how the addition of hydrogen sulfide decreases the concentration of...
• 09N.3.hl.TZ0.F2d: \({{\text{(EDTA)}}^{4 - }}\), the ethylenediaminetetraacetate anion, is a chelate ligand with the...
• 10M.3.hl.TZ1.E3d: Heavy metal ions can be removed by adding hydroxide ions. When hydroxide ions are added to a...
• 09M.3.hl.TZ1.E3a: Assuming chromium is present as \({\text{C}}{{\text{r}}^{3 + }}\), state an equation for its...
• 09M.3.hl.TZ1.E3b: State an expression for the solubility product constant, \({K_{{\text{sp}}}}\), for chromium(III)...
• 09M.3.hl.TZ1.E3c: The solubility product of chromium(III) hydroxide is...
• 11M.3.sl.TZ1.C3c: State one negative impact that the production of iron and steel has on the environment.
• 11M.3.hl.TZ2.E3a: Industrial effluent is found to be highly contaminated with silver and lead ions. A sample of...
• 11N.3.hl.TZ0.E3a: Raw sewage is the water-carried waste that flows away from a community. If it is discharged...
• 16M.3.hl.TZ0.8a: The presence of iron(III) ions can catalyse the formation of hydroxyl radicals from O2− and H2O2...
• 16M.3.hl.TZ0.8b: Zinc ions, toxic to aquatic life, may be removed by adding a solution containing hydroxide ions....
• 16N.3.hl.TZ0.10a: Compare and contrast the Fenton and Haber–Weiss reaction mechanisms.
• 16N.3.hl.TZ0.10b: Adsorption and chelation are two methods of removing heavy metal ion pollution from the...
• 17M.3.hl.TZ1.10b: Hydrogen sulfide could be used to remove antimony(III) ions from a solution. Determine the...
• 17M.3.hl.TZ1.10c: Identify a ligand that could be used to chelate antimony(III) ions in solution.
• 17M.3.hl.TZ2.4a: Identify the other product formed.
• 17M.3.hl.TZ2.4b: Explain why EDTA, a chelating agent, is more effective in removing heavy metal ions from solution...
• 17M.3.hl.TZ2.5b.iii: Nickel(II) ions are least soluble at pH 10.5. Calculate the molar solubility of nickel(II)...
• 17N.3.hl.TZ0.9a: State the name of one method, other than precipitation, of removing heavy metal ions from...
• 17N.3.hl.TZ0.9b: The solubility product, Ksp , of cadmium sulfide, CdS, is 8.0 × 10–27. Determine the...
• 18M.3.hl.TZ1.5e: The concentration of aluminium in drinking water can be reduced by precipitating aluminium...
• 18M.3.hl.TZ2.4b.i: Vanadium and other transition metals can interfere with cell metabolism. State and explain one...
• 18M.3.hl.TZ2.4b.ii: Vanadium(IV) ions can create free radicals by a Fenton reaction. Deduce the equation for the...