Chemistry A

Module 2 - Chapter 4
Acids and redox
Mr Gundry
Please note that you may see slight differences between
this paper and the original.
Duration: 227 mins
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 1 A compound of nickel, J, has the formula (NH4)2 [Ni(SCN)x(NH3)y] and contains SCN– and NH3 ligands.

The percentage by mass of three of the elements in compound J is shown below:

Ni, 16.26%; S, 35.56%; N, 31.00%.

(i) Calculate the values of x and y in the formula of compound J.

n(Ni)= 16.26/58.7 = 0.27700

n(S)= 35.56/32.1 = 1.10778
n(N)= 31.00/14 = 2.21428

2.21428/0.27700 = 8
1.10778/0.27700 = 4
0.27700/0.27700 = 1 4
x = ...............................................................

2
y = ...............................................................
[3]

(ii) Determine the oxidation number of nickel in compound J.

+2
oxidation number: ......................................................... [1]

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 2 This question is about reactions and uses of the weak acids methanoic acid, HCOOH, and ethanoic acid,
CH3COOH.

A student adds magnesium metal to an aqueous solution of ethanoic acid, CH3COOH.

A redox reaction takes place.

Write the overall equation for this reaction and explain, in terms of oxidation numbers, which element has been
oxidised and which element has been reduced.

Equation Mg + CH3COOH --> Mg(CH3COO)2 + H2

Oxidation Magnesium has been oxidised from an
oxidation number of 0 to an oxidation
number of +2.
Reduction

Hydrogen has been reduced from an

oxidation
[3]
number of +1 to an oxidation number of 0.
3 20 cm3 of 0.10 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid is added to 10 cm3 of 0.10 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide.

What is the pH of the resulting mixture?

A 1.00
B 1.18
C 1.30
D 1.48

Your answer D [1]

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 4 Iodide ions, I–(aq), react with MnO4 –(aq). The unbalanced equation is shown below.

I–(aq) + MnO4 –(aq) + H2O(l) → IO–(aq) + MnO2(s) + OH–(aq)

What is the ratio of MnO2(s) to OH–(aq) in the balanced equation?

A 1:3
B 1:2
C 1:1
D 3:2

Your answer C [1]

5 Several students titrate 25.00 cm3 of the same solution of sodium hydroxide, NaOH(aq) with hydrochloric acid,
HCl (aq).

One student obtains a smaller titre than the other students.

Which procedure explains the smaller titre?

A The burette readings are taken from the top of the meniscus instead of the bottom of the meniscus.
B The conical flask is rinsed with water before carrying out the titration.
C An air bubble is released from the jet of the burette during the titration.
D The pipette is rinsed with water before filling with NaOH(aq).

Your answer [1]

D

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 6 A student is provided with a sample of a metal M.

The student analyses metal M using a ‘back-titration’ technique:

• The metal is reacted with excess acid.

• The resulting solution is titrated to determine the amount of acid remaining after the reaction.

Stage 1
The student adds 100 cm3 of 2.10 mol dm–3 HCl (aq) to 6.90 g of M.
An excess of HCl (aq) has been used to ensure that all of metal M reacts.

A redox reaction occurs, forming a solution containing M in the +2 oxidation state.

Stage 2
The resulting solution from Stage 1 is made up to 250.0 cm3 with distilled water.

Stage 3
A 25.00 cm3 sample of the diluted solution from Stage 2 is titrated with 0.320 mol dm–3 NaOH(aq).

The NaOH(aq) reacts with excess HCl (aq) that remains in Stage 1:

NaOH(aq) + HCl (aq) → NaCl (aq) + H2O(l)

The student repeats the titration to obtain concordant titres.

Titration results (The trial titre has been omitted.)

The burette readings have been recorded to the nearest 0.05 cm3.

1 2 3
3
Final reading / cm 27.80 37.55 32.20
3
Initial reading / cm 0.50 10.00 5.00

(i) In Stage 1, a redox reaction takes place between M and HCl (aq), forming hydrogen and a solution
containing M in the +2 oxidation state.

Write an overall equation, with state symbols, for this reaction. Write half-equations for the oxidation and
reduction processes.

Overall equation M(s)+ HCl(aq) --> MCl2(aq)+ H2(g)

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 Oxidation half-equation M --> M(2+) + 2e-
Reduction half-equation 2H- + 2e- --> H2
[3]

(ii) In Stage 1, suggest two observations that would confirm that all of metal M has reacted.

There is no bubbling present at the reaction.

1

2
All of the metal has been dissolved.

[2]

(iii) In Stage 3, write the ionic equation for the reaction taking place in the titration.

H+ + OH- --> H2O [1]

(iv) Metal M can be identified following the steps below.

1. The amount, in mol, of excess HCl (aq) that remains after the reaction of M with HCl (aq).
2. The amount, in mol, of HCl (aq) that reacted with M.
3. The identity of metal M.

Analyse the results to identify metal M.

Mean Titre = 0.5(27.20 + 27.30) = 27.25 cm3

Mean Titre = 27.25/1000 = 0.02725 dm3

n(NaOH) = 0.02725 * 0.320 = 0.00872

n(HCl) = 0.00872 * 10 = 0.0872
n(HCl in original solution) = 0.0872

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100 cm3 to 0.1 dm3

n(HCl react with M) = 0.1(2.10) = 0.210 - 0.0872

n(HCl react with M) = 0.1228 mol

n(M) = 0.1228/2 = 0.0614

M(M) = 6.90/0.0614 = 112.4 g

Cd
Metal M = .......................................................... [6]

7 This question is about some elements in Period 4 of the periodic table.

Bromine reacts with concentrated sodium hydroxide at 50 °C as in the equation below.

3Br2 + 6NaOH 5NaBr + NaBrO3 + 3H2O

(i) Write the systematic name for NaBrO3.

Sodium Bromate [1]

(ii) This reaction is an example of disproportionation.

Use oxidation numbers to explain why. Include the meaning of the term disproportionation.

Disproportionation is a reaction
where a
single element is both oxidised and
reduced in a reaction. Bromine in
this case is reduced in NaBr from
an oxidation number of 0 to -1. It
is also oxidised in NaBrO3 from an
oxidation number of 0 to +5. [3]

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 8 This question is about nickel and its compounds.

Nickel reacts with dilute hydrochloric acid in a redox reaction.

Ni(s) + 2HCl (aq) NiCl 2(aq) + H2(g)

Explain, in terms of the number of electrons transferred, whether nickel is oxidised or reduced.

Nickel has been oxidised because it loses

two electrons to chlorine atoms in NiCl2.

[1]

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 9 This question is about barium hydroxide.

A student carries out a titration to determine the concentration of an aqueous solution of Ba(OH)2.

The student adds 25.0 cm3 of the Ba(OH)2(aq) solution to a conical flask.
The student titrates this solution by adding 0.160 mol dm–3 HNO3(aq) from the burette.

The equation is shown below.

Ba(OH)2(aq) + 2HNO3 (aq) → Ba(NO3)2(aq) + 2H2O(l)

The student repeats the titration until concordant titres are obtained.

The mean titre of 0.160 mol dm–3 HNO3(aq) is 26.75 cm3.

(i) What is meant by concordant titres?

Titres that have a difference of 0.10 cm3.

[1]

(ii) Calculate the concentration, in mol dm–3, of the Ba(OH)2(aq) solution.

n(HNO3)= 0.160 * 26.75(1/1000) = 4.28 * 10^-3

n(Ba(OH)2) = 2.14 * 10^-3

C = n/0.025 = 0.0856 mol dm-3

0.0856
concentration of Ba(OH)2(aq) = .......................................... mol dm–3 [3]

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 10 The equation for a redox reaction is shown below.

2HClO3 + 2HCl → 2ClO2 + Cl 2 + 2H2O

Which statement is correct?

A Cl is both oxidised and reduced.

B Cl is oxidised and O is reduced.
C O is both oxidised and reduced.
D O is oxidised and Cl is reduced.

Your answer A [1]

11(a) Magnesium nitrate is used in fertilisers as a source of nitrogen.

* A student plans to prepare 250.0 cm3 of a 0.4000 mol dm–3 solution of magnesium nitrate, starting from
magnesium nitrate crystals, Mg(NO3)2•6H2O.

Describe how the student would prepare the solution, giving full details of quantities, apparatus and method.

n(crystals) = (0.25)*(0.4000) = 0.1 mol

m(crystals) = (0.1)*(24.3+124+108)
m(crystals) = 25.63g

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 [6]

(b) Magnesium nitrate decomposes when heated, as shown in the equation.

2Mg(NO3)2(s) → 2MgO(s) + 4NO2(g) + O2(g)

Using oxidation numbers, show which element has been oxidised and which has been reduced when
magnesium nitrate decomposes.

State the changes in oxidation numbers, including all signs.

Oxygen
Element oxidised ......................................................

-2 0
Oxidation number change: from ............. to .............

Nitrogen
Element reduced ......................................................

+5
Oxidation number change: from ............. to .............
+4

[2]

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 12(a) A student carries out a titration to determine the concentration of some hydrochloric acid.

The student titrates the hydrochloric acid against a standard solution of sodium carbonate, Na2CO3. The
equation is shown below.

Na2CO3(aq) + 2HCl (aq) → 2NaCl (aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)

• The student prepares 0.150 mol dm–3 Na2CO3 in a 250.0 cm3 volumetric flask.
• The hydrochloric acid is added to a 50.0 cm3 burette.
• The student pipettes the Na2CO3(aq) using a 25.0 cm3 pipette.

The student’s burette readings are shown in the table.

The rough titre has been omitted.

(i) Complete the table by adding the titres to the table.

Final reading / cm3 24.60 48.45 34.30

3
Initial reading / cm 0.40 24.60 10.00
Titre / cm 3
...................
24.20 24.30
...................
23.85 ...................
[1]

(ii) Calculate the mean titre of HCl , to the nearest 0.05 cm3, that the student should use for analysing the
results.

Mean Titre = (24.20 + 24.30)/2

24.25
mean titre = .................................................. cm3 [1]

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 (b) Calculate the concentration, in mol dm–3, of the hydrochloric acid.

Give your answer to 3 significant figures.

n(Na2CO3)= 0.150 * 0.025 = 0.00375

n(HCl) = 7.5 x 10^-3

C = 0.0075/(24.25/1000)= 0.309
concentration of HCl = .......................................... mol dm–3 [3]
(c) In the titrations, the student measured volumes with a pipette and a burette.

• The pipette had an uncertainty of ± 0.04 cm3 in the volume measured.

• The burette had an uncertainty of ± 0.05 cm3 in the volume measured.

Determine whether the volume measured by the pipette or the volume measured by the burette has the greater
percentage uncertainty.

Pipette
0.04/25.00 * 100 = 1.60%
Burette
0.05*2/24.25 * 100 = 0.41%

[2]

13 This question is about compounds of magnesium and phosphorus.

A student plans to prepare magnesium phosphate using the redox reaction of magnesium with phosphoric acid,
H3PO4.
3Mg(s) + 2H3PO4(aq) → Mg3(PO4)2(s) + 3H2(g)

(i) In terms of the number of electrons transferred, explain whether magnesium is being oxidised or reduced.

Magnesium is being oxidized since it loses

2 electrons.
[1]

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 (ii) The student plans to add magnesium to 50.0 cm3 of 1.24 mol dm−3 H3PO4.

Calculate the mass of magnesium that the student should add to react exactly with the phosphoric acid.

Give your answer to three significant figures.

n(H3PO4) = (50/1000)(1.24) = 0.062 mol

n(Mg) = 3(0.062/2) = 0.093 mol

m(Mg) = 24.3(0.093) = 2.26g

mass of Mg = 2.26 g [3]

(iii) How could the student obtain a sample of magnesium phosphate after reacting magnesium with phosphoric
acid?

The student can filter the magnesium

phosphate
solution using a filter paper and funnel,
to
receive the solid magnesium phosphate,
which will be collected on the filter paper.
[2]

(iv) Magnesium phosphate can also be prepared by reacting phosphoric acid with a compound of magnesium.

Choose a suitable magnesium compound for this preparation and write the equation for the reaction.

Formula of compound MgO

Equation [2]
3MgO + 2H3PO4 --> Mg3(PO4)2 + 3H2O

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 14 Which equation does not represent a neutralisation reaction?

A Zn + 2HCl → ZnCl2 + H2

B 2NH3 + H2SO4 → (NH4)2SO4

C Na2CO3 + 2CH3COOH → 2CH3COONa + CO2 + H2O

D CuO + 2HNO3 → Cu(NO3)2 + H2O

Your answer [1]

A

15 What is the oxidation number of Fe in K2FeO4?

A +4

B +5

C +6

D +7

Your answer C [1]

16 Which reaction shows oxidation of sulfur?

A 2HBr + H2SO4 → SO2 + 2H2O + Br2

B SO2 + 2NaOH → Na2SO3 + H2O

C 8HI + H2SO4 → 4I2 + H2S + 4H2O

D H2S + Cl2 → 2HCl + S

Your answer [1]

D

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 17 Iodine can be used for the small-scale purification of drinking water.

(i) Iodine reacts with water as shown below.

I2 + H2O ⇌ HI + HIO

Using oxidation numbers, explain why this reaction is a disproportionation.

Iodine has been oxidized and reduced in

this
reaction, which means this reaction is
a
disproportionation. I has been oxidized
from oxidation number 0 to +1 in HIO
and reduced from oxidation number 0
to -1 in HI. [3]

(ii) Chlorine is used to purify water on a large scale.

State one disadvantage of using chlorine for the purification of drinking water.
Chlorine is a toxic gas.

[1]

18(a) Sodium hydroxide is an alkali.

What is meant by the term alkali?

A type of soluble base that dissolves in

water
to release OH- ions. [1]

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 (b) A student carries out a titration to determine the molar mass and structure of a weak acid A.

The student follows the method below.

• Dissolve a weighed mass of A in 100 cm3 of distilled water and make the solution up to 250 cm3 in a
beaker.

• Add the solution of A to a burette.

• Titrate the solution of A with a standard solution of sodium hydroxide, NaOH.

The student carries out a trial, followed by three further titrations.

The diagram shows the initial and final burette readings for the three further titrations.

The student measures all burette readings to the nearest 0.05 cm3.

Titration 1 Titration 2 Titration 3

Initial reading Final reading Initial reading Final reading Initial reading Final reading

(i) Record the student’s readings and the titres in the table below.

Calculate the mean titre, to the nearest 0.05 cm3, that the student should use for analysing the results.

Titration 1 Titration 2 Titration 3

3 0.60
Final reading/cm 0.45 1.25
3 27.75
Initial reading/cm 27.00
27.30 26.40 26.50
Titre/cm3 26.85

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 mean titre =
26.45 cm3 [4]

(ii) The uncertainty in each burette reading is ± 0.05 cm3.

Calculate the percentage uncertainty for the titre in Titration 1.

% = 2(0.05/26.85) * 100

percentage uncertainty =
+-0.37 % [1]

(iii) The student realised that the solution of A had not been prepared correctly.

How should the student have made up the solution?

The student should have used a 250

cm3 volumetric
flask rather than using a beaker.
[1]

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 (c) A student repeats the titration to determine the molar mass and structure of A.

• The student prepares a 250.0 cm3 solution from 1.513 g of A.

• The solution of A is added to the burette and titrated with 25.0 cm3 volumes of 0.112 mol dm−3 NaOH(aq).

• 1 mol of A reacts with 2 mol of NaOH.

• The student obtains a mean titre of 27.30 cm3.

(i) Calculate the molar mass of A from these results.

Give your answer to the nearest whole number.

Show your working.

n(NaOH) = 0.025*0.112 = 2.8*10^-3 mol

n(A) = 1.4*10^-3 mol
n(og) = (1.4*10^-3)(250)/27.30
n(og) = 0.0128205 ... mol
M = 1.513/n(og) = 118 mol
118
molar mass of A = g mol−1 [4]

(ii) A is an organic acid, containing C, H and O only.

One molecule of A contains two COOH groups.

Suggest the structure of A.

[1]

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 (d) What is meant by the term standard solution?

A standard solution is a solution with a

known concentration.
[1]

19(a) A student carries out an experiment to identify an unknown carbonate.

The student weighs a sample of the solid carbonate in a weighing bottle.

The student tips the carbonate into a beaker and weighs the empty weighing bottle.
The student prepares a 250.0 cm3 solution of the carbonate.
The student carries out a titration using 25.0 cm3 of this solution measured using a pipette with 0.100 mol
dm–3 hydrochloric acid in the burette.

The sample of carbonate is dissolved in approximately 100 cm3 of distilled water in a beaker and the solution
transferred to a volumetric flask. The volume of the solution is made up to 250.0 cm3 with distilled water.

Another student suggests two possible sources of error:

A small amount of solid remained in the weighing bottle.

A small amount of solution remained in the beaker.

State whether the other student’s statements are correct.

How could the procedure be improved?

Yes, the other student's statements are correct.

To improve, the student must rinse both the
beaker and the weighing bottle with distilled
water so all of the carbonate is in the [2]
volumetric flask.

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 (b) The student carries out the final part of the experiment by adding 0.100 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid to a burette
and performing a titration using a 25.0 cm3 sample of the aqueous carbonate.

The student reads the burette to the nearest 0.05 cm3.

The diagrams below show the initial burette reading and the final burette reading.

(i) Record the student’s readings and the titre.

Initial = 0.60 cm3

Final = 22.8 cm3

Tire = 22.2 cm3 [1]

(ii) Describe what the student should do next to obtain reliable results for the titration.

The student must perform multiple titres

until two titres show concordant results.
[1]

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 (c) The equation below represents the reaction between the carbonate and hydrochloric acid.

M2CO3(aq) + 2HCl(aq) → 2MCl(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)

(i) Calculate the amount, in mol, of M2CO3 used in the titration.

n(HCl) = 22.2/1000 * 0.100 = 2.22*10^-3

n(M2CO3) = 1.11*10^-3
0.00111
n(M2CO3) = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ mol [2]

(ii) The student’s mass readings are recorded below.

Mass of weighing bottle + carbonate / g 14.92

Mass of weighing bottle / g 13.34

Use the student’s results to identify the carbonate, M2CO3.

Show all your working.

m(carbonate) = 14.92-13.34 = 1.58g

n(og solution) = 0.00111 x 10 = 0.0111 mol

[4]
Mr = 1.58/0.0111 = 142g

m(M) = 41g

M = K (Potassium)

Carbonate = K2CO3

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 20 Solid barium chloride has a high melting point. Barium chloride dissolves in water to form a solution that can be
used to test for sulfate ions.

(i) Draw a ‘dot-and-cross’ diagram to show the bonding in solid barium chloride.
Show outer electrons only.

[2]

(ii) A solution of barium chloride can be made in the laboratory using dilute hydrochloric acid.

Suggest a compound that can be reacted with hydrochloric acid to make barium chloride.
Barium Hydroxide [1]

21(a) Ethanoic acid, CH3COOH, is the main dissolved acid in vinegar.

Ethanoic acid is a weak acid.

What is meant by acid and weak acid?

An acid is a substance that dissociates to

release H+ ions in solutions.
A weak acid only partially dissociates to
release small amounts of H+ ions.
[1]

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 (b) Aluminium is reacted with ethanoic acid.

(i) The unbalanced equation for the reaction is shown below.

Balance the equation.

2 6 2
……. Al (s) + ……. CH3COOH(aq) → ……. (CH3COO)3Al (aq) + …… H2(g)
3

[1]

(ii) This reaction is a redox reaction.

Deduce which element has been oxidised and which element has been reduced, and state the changes in
oxidation number.

Aluminum 0 +3
Element oxidised: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ oxidation number change: from _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ to _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Hydrogen +1
Element reduced: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ oxidation number change: from _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ to _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
0
[2]

22 The burette readings from a titration are shown below.

Final reading / cm3 24.95

3
Initial reading / cm 5.00

The burette used has an uncertainty of ±0.05 cm3 in each reading.

What is the percentage uncertainty of the resulting titre?

A 0.20%
B 0.25%
C 0.45%
D 0.50%

Your answer D [1]

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 23 Salts can be prepared in redox reactions of metals with acids. A student prepares a solution of aluminium sulfate
by reacting aluminium with dilute sulfuric acid.

2Al(s) + 3H2SO4(aq) → Al2(SO4)3(aq) + 3H2(g)

Using oxidation numbers, show which element has been oxidised and which has been reduced in this reaction.
State the changes in oxidation numbers, including all signs.

Aluminum
element oxidised _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

0 +3
oxidation number change: from _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ to _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Hydrogen
element reduced _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

+1 0
oxidation number change: from _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ to _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

[2]

24 Nickel(II) nitrate, Ni(NO3)2, can be prepared by reacting nickel(II) oxide with dilute nitric acid.

(i) Write the equation for this reaction.

[1]
NiO(s)+2HNO3(aq) --> Ni(NO3)2(aq) + H2O(l)
(ii) Ni(NO3)2 contains the NO3− ion. The nitrogen atom bonds to the oxygen atoms with a single covalent bond, a
double covalent bond and a dative covalent bond, as shown below.

Draw the ‘dot‐and‐cross‘ diagramfor the NO3− ion, showing outer shell electrons only.
Use a different symbol for the extra electron.
[2]

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 25 Which equation is not a neutralisation reaction?

A Ca(s) + 2HCl(aq) → CaCl2(aq) + H2(g)

B H+(aq) + OH−(aq) → H2O(l)
C K2CO3(s) + 2HNO3(aq)→ 2KNO3(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)
D NH3(aq) + HCl(aq) → NH4Cl(aq)

Your answer A

[1]

26 What is the oxidation number of nitrogen in Mg(NO3)2?

A −3
B +2
C +5
D +6

Your answer C
[1]

27(a) Zinc carbonate, ZnCO3, reacts with dilute hydrochloric acid.

A student reacts a sample of ZnCO3 with an excess of dilute hydrochloric acid in a test-tube.

(i) Describe what the student would see during this reaction.

The student would see bubbles in the reaction

and carbon dioxide is produced. [1]

(ii) Write the equation for the reaction between ZnCO3 and dilute hydrochloric acid.

[1]
ZnCO3 + 2HCl --> ZnCl2 + H2O + CO2

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 (b) Magnesium will undergo redox reactions with aqueous salts of less reactive metals.

(i) A student reacts magnesium with aqueous copper(II) sulfate.

Mg(s) + CuSO4(aq) → Cu(s) + MgSO4(aq)

Explain, in terms of numbers of electron transferred, the redox processes taking place in this reaction.

Solid Mg donates 2 electrons to the CU2+ ions

and in turn becomes oxidized into Mg2+ ions. The CU2+
ions gain 2 electrons from Mg and in turn, become
normal Cu atoms and become reduced. [2]

(ii) The student also noticed that the magnesium started fizzing.

The student thought the fizzing was due to the magnesium reacting with water in the mixture.

Write the equation for the reaction of magnesium with water.

Include state symbols.

Mg(s) + 2H2O(l) --> Mg(OH)2(aq) + H2(g) [2]

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 28

(i) Fluorine is the most electronegative element.

Indicate any dipoles on the molecule of F2O below using partial charges.

[1]

(ii) Suggest the shape of the F2O molecule and the F−O−F bond angle.

Non-Linear
Shape _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

104.5
Bond angle _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

[1]

(iii) What is the oxidation number of oxygen in F2O?

Include the sign in your answer.

+2
[1]

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 29 N2O3 is an unstable oxide of nitrogen that decomposes in a redox reaction.

N2O3(g) → NO(g) + NO2(g)

(i) State the oxidation number of nitrogen in each oxide in the table below.

Oxide Oxidation number of nitrogen

N2O3
+3
NO
+2
NO2
+4

[1]

(ii) Name this type of redox reaction.

In your answer you should use appropriate technical terms spelled correctly.

Disproportionisation [1]

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 30(a) A student investigates the reaction between strontium carbonate and dilute nitric acid.

SrCO3 + 2HNO3 → Sr(NO3)2 + CO2 + H2O

The rate of reaction is determined from the loss in mass over a period of time.

(i) Explain why there is a loss in mass during the reaction.

Some of the gaseous CO2 escapes into the
atmosphere so the mass reduces. [1]

(ii) An excess of strontium carbonate, SrCO3, is mixed with 20.0 cm3 of 1.25 mol dm−3 nitric acid, HNO3.

Calculate the mass of SrCO3 that reacts with the HNO3.

n(HNO3) = 1.25*(20/1000) = 0.025 mol

n(SrCO3) = 0.0125 mol

m(SrCO3) = 0.0125*(87.6+12+48)
m = 1.845g

1.845
mass = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ g [3]

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 (b) The student plots a graph of total mass (reagents + container) against time.

(i) Describe and explain the change in the rate of the reaction during the first 200 seconds of the experiment.

The rate of reaction decreases.

The mass of the reactants decreases
more slowly as time passes on. [2]

(ii) Using the graph, calculate the rate of reaction, in g s−1, at 200 seconds.

Show your working on the graph.

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 rate of reaction = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ g s−1 [2]

(c) Outline a method that could be used to obtain the results that are plotted on the graph.

Your answer should include the apparatus required and the procedure for the experiment.

[3]
31 Group 2 elements are metals that react with oxygen and water.

Magnesium is oxidised when it burns in oxygen to form an ionic compound.

(i) Write the electron configuration, in terms of sub-shells, of a magnesium atom.

1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2
[1]

(ii) Explain what happens when magnesium is oxidised in terms of electron transfer.
Magnesium donates 2 electrons to the oxygen
atoms in the air to become oxidized into
[1]
a Mg 2+ ion.
32(a) A student was given 200 cm3 of solution X in which sodium hydroxide, NaOH, and sodium hydrogencarbonate,
NaHCO3, had both been dissolved.

The student carried out two different titrations on samples of solution X using 0.100 mol dm–3 sulfuric acid,
H2SO4.

In the first titration, both NaOH and NaHCO3 were neutralised.

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 In the second titration, only NaOH was neutralised.

The student's results for the titrations of 25.0 cm3 samples of solution X are shown.

volume of H2SO4 needed to neutralise both NaOH and NaHCO3 29.50 cm3
volume of H2SO4 needed to neutralise only NaOH 18.00 cm3

2NaOH(aq) + H2SO4(aq) → Na2SO4(aq) + 2H2O(l)

2NaHCO3(aq) + H2SO4(aq) → Na2SO4(aq) + 2H2O(l) + 2CO2(g)

(i) Calculate the amount, in mol, of H2SO4 used to neutralise only the NaOH in 25.0 cm3 of solution X.

n(H2SO4) = 0.100 * 18/1000 = 1.8*10^-3 mol

1.8*10^-3
Amount = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ mol [1]

(ii) Calculate the concentration, in mol dm–3, of NaOH in solution X.

n(NaOH) = 3.6*10^-3 mol

C = n/(25/1000)
C = 0.144 mol dm-3

0.144
Concentration = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ mol dm–3 [1]

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 (b)

(i) Calculate the amount, in mol, of NaHCO3 in the 200 cm3 of solution X.

V(H2SO4) = 29.50-18 = 11.50 cm3

n(H2SO4) = 0.100 * 11.50/1000 = 1.15*10^-3
n(NaHCO3) = 2(1.15*10^-3) * (200/25) = 0.0184 mol

0.0184
Amount = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ mol [2]

(ii) Calculate the mass of NaHCO3 in the 200 cm3 of solution X.

Give your answer to three significant figures.

m = 0.0184*(23+12+1+48) = 1.55g

1.55
Mass = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ g [1]

33(a) Calcium hydroxide is both a base and an alkali. Refer to any relevant ions in your answer.

Explain what is meant by the terms base and alkali.

A substance which is a proton acceptor.

Base _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

A base which is soluble and dissolves in

Alkali _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
water to release OH- ions.
[2]

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 (b) A student prepares a solution of calcium nitrate from calcium carbonate.

What reagent would the student need to use?

Write the equation for the reaction.

HNO3
Reagent _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

CaCO3 + 2HNO3 --> Ca(NO3)2 + H2O + CO2

Equation _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ [2]

34 This question is about Group 7 elements

Chlorine can be made by the redox reaction below.

MnO2(s) + 4HCl(aq) → MnCl2(aq) + 2H2O(l) + Cl2(g)

Using oxidation numbers, show what has been oxidised and what has been reduced in this reaction.

Chlorine is oxidized and goes from

Oxidised _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

oxidation number -1 in HCl to 0 in Cl2.

Mn is reduced and goes from
Reduced _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
oxidation number +4 in MnO2 to +2 in MnCl2.

[2]

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 35 Cerium behaves as a typical metal when it reacts with dilute sulfuric acid to form the salt cerium(III) sulfate and a
second product.

(i) Identify the second product.

Hydrogen gas (H2) [1]

(ii) Write the formula of cerium(III) sulfate and, explain what has happened to the cerium in this reaction in terms
of the number of electrons transferred.

Ce2(SO4)3
Formula _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Cerium loses 3 electrons and becomes

Explanation _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
a Ce 3+ ion. [2]

(iii) How has a salt been formed in this reaction?

The H+ ions in H2SO4 have been replaced

by the Ce 3+ ions. [1]

36 Calcium phosphate(V), Ca3(PO4)2, is a salt used in fertilisers.

Calcium phosphate(V) can be prepared by reacting together an acid and a base.

(i) Suggest the formula of the acid used to prepare Ca3(PO4)2.

H3PO4 [1]

(ii) Name a base which could be used to prepare Ca3(PO4)2.

Ca(OH)2 [1]

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 37 An aqueous solution of aluminium chloride can be prepared by the redox reaction between aluminium metal and
dilute hydrochloric acid.

A student reacts 0.0800 mol of aluminium completely with dilute hydrochloric acid to form an aqueous solution
of aluminium chloride.

The equation for this reaction is shown below.

2Al(s) + 6HCl(aq) → 2AlCl3(aq) + 3H2(g)

In terms of electron transfer, explain whether aluminium is being oxidised or reduced.

Al atoms lose 3 electrons to become a Al 3+ [1]

ion and therefore it is oxidized.
38(a) A student carries out a titration to determine the molar mass of an unknown acid, A.

The student dissolves 2.24 g of acid A in distilled water and makes the solution up to 250.0 cm3.
The student titrates a 25.0 cm3 portion of this solution with 0.120 mol dm−3 NaOH.
25.25 cm3 of 0.120 mol dm−3 NaOH are required to reach the end point.

Name the apparatus that the student should use to

make up the acid solution to 250.0 cm3

measure the 25.0 cm3 portion of acid solution.

make up the acid solution to 250 cm3:

Volumetric flask

measure the 25.0 cm3 portion:

Glass pipette
[1]

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 (b) The acid reacts with NaOH in a 1 : 1 molar ratio.
Calculate the molar mass of acid A.

n(NaOH) = 0.120 * (25.25/1000) = 3.03*10^-3

n(A) = 3.03*10^-3
n(original) = 3.03*10^-3 * (250/25.25)
n(og) = 0.0303 mol
M = 2.24/0.0303 = 73.9g
73.9
molar mass of acid A = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ g mol−1 [3]
(c) The student is not confident that their titre is accurate.
Suggest what the student should do next to reduce the effect of any random error in the titration.

The student should produce multiple titres

and stop once 2 titres are concordant to
each other. [2]

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 39(a) In an experiment, a scientist prepared a 0.500 g sample of a salt made by neutralisation.

Analysis of the sample gave the following data.

Element Mass present / g

hydrogen 0.025
oxygen 0.300
nitrogen 0.175

0.025/0.025 = 1
(i) Calculate the empirical formula of the salt. 0.025/0.01875 = 1.5
0.025/0.0125 = 2
0.025/1 = 0.025
0.300/16 = 0.01875
0.175/14 = 0.0125
H2O3N4
empirical formula = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ [2]

(ii) Suggest the formula of the acid and base that the scientist used to prepare this salt.

acid: HNO3
base: NH3
[1]

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 (b) This question looks at neutralisation reactions.

A student carries out an experiment to determine the enthalpy change for a neutralisation reaction.

The student measures out 35.0 cm3 of 2.40 mol dm−3 KOH and 35.0 cm3 of 1.20 mol dm−3 H2SO4.
The temperature of each solution is 19.5 °C.

The student mixes the solutions. The KOH is all neutralised and the maximum temperature reached is 36.0 °C.

(i) Write the overall equation for the reaction that takes place.

2KOH + H2SO4 --> K2SO4 + 2H2O

[1]

(ii) Calculate the enthalpy change for the reaction between 1 mol KOH and 1 mol HCl.

Assume that the density of the mixture is 1.00 g cm−3 and that the specific heat capacity for the solution is
the same as for water.

ΔH = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ kJ [3]

(iii) Explain, why the answer to (ii) is the enthalpy change of neutralisation.

[1]

(iv) In this experiment, the student uses a thermometer with an uncertainty of ±0.5 °C in each reading.

Calculate the percentage uncertainty in the temperature rise.

percentage uncertainty = _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ % [1]

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 40 Ammonia is used in the manufacture of nitric acid. The first stage of this process is a dynamic equilibrium.

4NH3(g) + 5O2(g) 4NO(g) + 6H2O(g)

(i) When the temperature is increased, Kc for this reaction decreases.

State the effect, if any, on the equilibrium yield of NO in this reaction.

Explain your answer.

[1]

(ii) Which element has been oxidised and which element has been reduced in the reaction?

Include signs with the oxidation numbers.

N
Oxidised _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ -3 +2
Oxidation number change from _ _ _ _ _ _ _ to _ _ _ _ _ _ _

O
Reduced _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
0 -2
Oxidation number change from _ _ _ _ _ _ _ to _ _ _ _ _ _ _

[2]

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 41 The equation for the reaction of aqueous phosphoric(V) acid, H3PO4, with aqueous sodium hydroxide, NaOH(aq)
is shown below.

H3PO4(aq) + 3NaOH(aq) → Na3PO4(aq) + 3H2O(l)

25.0 cm3 of a 0.200 mol dm–3 H3PO4(aq) is titrated with 0.600 mol dm–3 NaOH(aq).

Which statement is correct?

A The end point occurs when 25.00 cm3 of NaOH(aq) has been added.
B The end point occurs when 75.00 cm3 of NaOH(aq) has been added.
C After titration the final solution contains 0.0150 mol of Na3PO4.
D After titration the final solution contains 0.0150 mol of H2O.

Your answer
A
[1]

42 Equations for two reactions that form H2O are shown below.

2H2O2 → 2H2O + O2
2H2 + O2 → 2H2O

Which statement is correct?

A Hydrogen is reduced in both reactions.

B Hydrogen is reduced in only one of the reactions.
C Oxygen is oxidised in both reactions.
D Oxygen is oxidised in only one of the reactions.

Your answer
B
[1]

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 43 What is the oxidation number of vanadium in the ion V2O74–?

A +5
B +7
C +10
D +14

Your answer A
[1]

44 Carbon monoxide can be made in the laboratory by heating a mixture of zinc metal and calcium carbonate. An
equation for this reaction is shown below.

Zn(s) + CaCO3(s) → ZnO(s) + CaO(s) + CO(g)

This reaction is a redox reaction.

Deduce which element has been oxidised and which has been reduced, and state the change in oxidation
number in each case.

Zn
element oxidised _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
+2
oxidation number change: from _ _ _ _ to _ _ _ _
0
C
element reduced _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ +4 +2
oxidation number change: from _ _ _ _ to _ _ _ _

[2]

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 45 A student prepares a standard solution and carries out a titration.
The standard solution is placed in the burette.

Which of the following would result in a titre that is larger than it should be?

1: Water is added to completely fill the volumetric flask, rather than to the graduation line.

2: The conical flask is washed out with water before carrying out each titration.

3: The pipette is washed out with water before carrying out each titration.

A 1, 2 and 3
B Only 1 and 2
C Only 2 and 3
D Only 1

Your answer
D
[1]

46 Which reagent would exactly neutralise 100 cm3 of 1.00 mol dm–3 H2SO4(aq)?

A 0.100 mol Al(OH)3

B 0.100 mol NH3
C 0.100 mol Ba(OH)2
D 0.100 mol NaOH

C
Your answer
[1]

47 Which equation represents a redox reaction?

A Mg + 2HCl → MgCl2 + H2
B MgO + 2HCl → H2O + MgCl2
C MgCO3 + 2HCl → CO2 + H2O + MgCl2
D Mg(OH)2 + 2HCl → MgCl2 + 2H2O

Your answer
A
[1]

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 48 What is the formula of chromium(III) sulfate?

A Cr3SO4
B Cr(SO4)3
C Cr2(SO4)3
D Cr3SO3

C
Your answer
[1]

END OF QUESTION PAPER

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 Mark Scheme

Question Answer/Indicative content Marks Guidance

1 i 3 ALLOW any correct method

OR 0.277 : 1.10 : (AO
3.1×1) ALLOW NiS4N8 for ratio

2.21
ALLOW ECF for y from incorrect x
OR 1 : 4 : 8 ✓ (AO
3.2×2)
x=4✓

2+x+y=8 y=2✓

ii +2 ✓ 1 + required
(AO 2.1)
ALLOW 2+

Total 4

2 Equation: Mg + 2CH3COOH → 3 ALLOW Mg(CH3COO)2

(CH3COO)2Mg + H2 ✓ (AO 2.6) ALLOW multiples
IGNORE Oxidation numbers in formulae
IGNORE state symbols

Mark independently from equation

Oxidation: Mg from 0 to +2 ✓ (AO 1.2) ALLOW 1 mark for correct oxidation

numbers but incorrectly linked to redox.
Reduction: H from +1 to 0 ✓ (AO 1.2)

Total 3

3 D 1
(AO 2.2)

Total 1

4 C 1
(AO 2.6)

Total 1

5 D 1
(AO 2.7)

Total 1

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 Mark Scheme

Question Answer/Indicative content Marks Guidance

6 i 3 All 3 marks are independent.

(AO
2.6×3) IGNORE charges/oxidation numbers
shown around overall equation. Treat as
rough working

ALLOW overall equation shown with some

Overall equation AND state symbols: or all ions that are present
M(s) + 2HCl(aq) → MCl2(aq) + H2(g) ✓ e.g. (with state symbols)
M + 2H+ → M2+ + H2
M + 2HCl → M2+ + 2Cl– + H2
STATE SYMBOLS required in overall M + 2H+ + 2Cl– → M2+ + 2Cl– + H2
equation ONLY In half equations,
IGNORE state symbols even is wrong BUT
Half equations: half equations MUST only have species
Oxidation M → M2+ + 2e– ✓ that change.

Reduction 2H+ + 2e– → H2 For charges on half equations,

OR H+ + e– → ½H2 ✓ ALLOW M+2 for M2+ OR H+1 for H+
ALLOW M – 2e– → M2+
If BOTH half equations are correct but
shown with oxidation and reduction the
wrong way around, award 1 mark from the
2 marks for half equations

Examiner’s Comments

This question required candidates to write

an overall equation and half equations for
oxidation and reduction. Many candidates
made errors within one or more equations.
The overall equation was often written
without state symbols, despite the question
instruction ‘with state symbols’. The
oxidation half equation was more likely to
be correct than the reduction half equation,
which often used Cl instead of H+. When
H+ was used, the half equation was often
unbalanced or electrons had been omitted.

It is recommended that candidates

carefully use the chemical information in
the question.

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 Mark Scheme

Question Answer/Indicative content Marks Guidance

ii Bubbles/effervescence/fizzing stops ✓ 2 Responses must imply that all fizzing has

(AO stopped and that all the solid has dissolved
M/metal/solid has disappeared/dissolved ✓ 3.3×2) i.e. ‘metal disappears’ is not quite enough.
‘All the metal disappears’ is enough

IGNORE constant mass

IGNORE no increase in temperature

Examiner’s Comments

Most candidates identified that all the metal

would have reacted when it had all
disappeared and that gas bubbles from the
reaction would have stopped. Some
responses did not emphasise that these
observations would have stopped and this
prevented credit being given.

iii H+ + OH– → H2O ✓ 1 ALLOW multiples

(AO 2.5) e.g. 2H+ + 2OH– → 2H2O

IGNORE state symbols, even if wrong

Examiner’s Comments

The ionic equation for neutralisation of an

acid with an alkali was well known and this
question was answered correctly by most
candidates.

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 Mark Scheme

Question Answer/Indicative content Marks Guidance

iv Mean titre 1 mark 6 FULL ANNOTATIONS MUST BE USED

--------------------------------------------------------

Analysis of results 5 marks (AO Common error:

2.8×5) Incorrect mean from all 3 titres = 27.35 cm3

n(HCl) in 25.0 cm3 = n(NaOH) Use ECF throughout

n(HCl) in 250 cm3 Intermediate values for working to at least
= 8.72 × 10–3 × 10 = 8.72 × 10–2 (mol) ✓ 3 SF.

n(HCl) that reacted with M TAKE CARE: Value written down may be
= 0.210 – 8.72 × 10–2 = 0.1228 (mol) ✓ truncated calculator value.
Depending on rounding, either can be
(AO 3.2) credited.

ALLOW 0.123 (mol) i.e. 3SF

COMMON ERRORS:
Mean of 27.35 (use of all 3 titres) ALLOW 0.0615 (mol) IF 0.1228 rounded to
→ 8.752 × 10–3 → 8.752 × 10–2 → 0.123
0.12248
→ 0.06124 → 112.7 AND Cd: 5
marks ALLOW 112.2 from 0.0615 AND Cd
No ÷2 to obtain n(M)
→ 56.2 AND Fe (from 27.25) 5 marks
→ 56.3 AND Fe (from 27.35) 4 marks ALLOW Ar to nearest whole number
No subtraction from 0.210 ALLOW ECF for metal closest to
calculated Ar

→ 158.2 to 158.3 AND Tb 5 marks DO NOT ALLOW Ga OR Sc (Form 3+ ions

No ×10 to obtain n(HCl) in 250 cm3 5 only)
marks
0.210 – 8.72 × 10–3 = 0.20128 OR Examiner’s Comments
0.201
n(M) = 0.20128/2 = 0.10064 Candidates were presented with
Ar = 6.90/0.10064 = 68.56 → Zn information about a back titration, a
No ×10 and no ÷ 2 4 marks technique that they would be unlikely to
0.210 – 8.72 × 10–3 = 0.20128 have encountered during their course. The
Ar = 6.9/0.20128 = 34.28 → Ca question stem to (iv) suggested a three-
Omitting initial titration calculation Zero step strategy. Many candidates followed
marks this guidance and were credited with many
0.210/2 = 0.105 → 6.9/0.105 = 65.71 → of the available marks. Marks were given
Zn for a correct method (by error carried
forward) even if there was an error or
omission in the multi-step calculation. This
emphasises the importance of clear
working.

Most candidates determined the correct

mean titre of 27.25 cm3. A few candidates

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 Mark Scheme

Question Answer/Indicative content Marks Guidance

did take the mean of all three titres rather

than the closest. Most calculated that 8.72
× 10–3 mol of NaOH reacted with the same
number of moles of HCl in the titration and
then scaled up the HCl by a factor of 10 to
8.72 × 10–2 mol in the 250 cm3 volumetric
flask. These steps are standard for many
titration calculations and gave a route to
three of the six available marks. The more
difficult back titration steps then followed
and the higher-attaining candidates
recognised the need to subtract this
amount of HCl from the original amount of
HCl used to react with metal M. These
candidates then divide this value by two to
find the moles of M that reacted (from the 1
: 2 stoichiometry of M : HCl). The correct
calculation then gave a relative atomic
mass of M as 112 and its identity as
cadmium. It was common for candidates to
omit the division by two and to arrive at a
relative atomic mass of 56 for iron. The
mark scheme shows the variety of metals
that candidates identified from their
calculations, the errors made, and the error
carried forward marks that resulted.

Many lower-attaining candidates did not

follow the 3 steps in the stem, using only
the original amount of HCl and ignoring the
titration. This approach was not credited
with marks.

A large range of marks was seen, and the

question discriminated extremely well.

Total 12

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 Mark Scheme

Question Answer/Indicative content Marks Guidance

7 i Sodium bromate(V) ✓ 1 Examiner’s Comments

(AO2.5×1
) Very few candidates scored this mark.
Although a number of candidates did give
sodium bromate as the answer (with the
omission of the oxidation state), many
other answers were seen suggesting
candidates are not aware of naming
conventions for inorganic compounds.

ii Br is oxidised AND reduced 3 ALLOW same element is both oxidised and

OR Br oxidation number is increased and (AO1.1×1 reduced
decreased ✓ )
ALLOW 1 mark if all 3 oxidation numbers
Br is oxidised from 0 to +5 ✓ are correct (even if oxidation/reduction
Br is reduced from 0 to –1 ✓ incorrectly assigned)
(AO2.2×2
) Examiner’s Comments

This is the first time in a reformed

chemistry AS paper that the question
space has been left unstructured for
oxidation number changes. The highest-
attaining candidates set out their
responses clearly, dealing with changes for
oxidation and reduction separately, and
giving the correct oxidation numbers.
Some struggled to obtain an oxidation
state of Br in NaBrO3 as +5, suggesting +1
instead.

Total 4

8 Oxidised 1 IGNORE reference to oxidation numbers

AND (AO2.1) (even if incorrect)
nickel has lost/donated two electrons ✓
Examiner’s Comments

A considerable number of candidates did

not score the mark here despite knowing
that it was an oxidation reaction. They
either omitted to give the number of
electrons lost or gave their justification
using oxidation numbers. This question
highlights the importance of reading the
question carefully and answering the
question asked, not one that may have
been seen previously.

Total 1

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9 i (Titres that agree) within 0.1 cm3 ✓ 1 ALLOW within 0.05 cm3
(AO2.3)
ALLOW ml for cm3

If cm3 units are absent, ASSUME cm3

BUT
DO NOT ALLOW incorrect units,
e.g. dm3; mol dm–3

ii FIRST CHECK ANSWER ON THE 3 Use ECF throughout

ANSWER LINE
If answer = 0.0856 (mol dm–3) award 3 DO NOT ALLOW 4.3 × 10–3
marks BUT remaining marks available by ECF
--------------------------------------------------------- e.g.
------------- 4.3 × 10–3 ÷ 2 = 2.15 × 10–3 ✓ ECF

= 4.28 × 10–3 (mol) ✓ (AO2.8×2

)
Examiner’s Comments
n(Ba(OH)2) in 25.0
cm3
Many candidates seemed to be unfamiliar
= 2.14 × 10–3 (mol) ✓ with the term ‘concordant titres’.
Acceptable responses were ‘within 0.1 cm3
and within 0.05 cm3. Common incorrect
Concentration answers for this important term included
= 0.0856 (mol dm–3) (AO2.4) ‘the closest titres’, ‘similar titres’, ‘repeated
✓ titres’ and ‘within 0.5 cm3’.

Total 3

10 A 1 Examiner’s Comments
(AO1.2)
Candidates performed well with this
question. Most successful candidates
wrote the oxidation numbers beneath the
equation to work out that Cl is both
oxidised and reduced. This is a good
strategy.

Total 1

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11 a Please refer to the marking instructions on 6(AO2.8× Indicative scientific points may include:
this mark scheme for guidance on how to 2)
mark this question. Calculation:

Level 3 (5–6 marks)

Calculates the correct mass of
M(Mg(NO3)2•6H2O) = 256.3
Mg(NO3)2•6H2O or Mg(NO3)2.
Mass = 0.1000 × 256.3 = 25.63 g
AND
Explains the preparation steps, with most
OR M(Mg(NO3)2) = 148.3
fine detail. (AO2.3×
Mass = 14.83 g
2)
There is a well-developed line of reasoning
ALLOW small slip/rounding errors such as
which is clear and logically structured. The
errors on Mr (e.g. use of 24 instead of 24.3
information presented is relevant and
for Mg Ar)
substantiated.
Preparation steps (apparatus and method):
Level 2 (3–4 marks)
Attempts a calculation which is partly
Weigh mass of crystals
correct.
Dissolve in (distilled/deionised) water
AND
Transfer to 250 cm3 volumetric flask
Outlines the preparation steps, with some
Make up to the mark with more water
fine detail.
so that bottom of meniscus is on the
(AO2.7×
mark
There is a line of reasoning presented with 2)
some structure. The information presented
IGNORE removing the water of
is relevant and supported by some
crystallisation
evidence.
Fine detail:
Level 1 (1–2 marks)
Attempts the calculation but makes little
2 or more decimal place balance
progress or makes errors.
Rinse beaker and transfer washings to
OR
flask
Briefly outlines the preparation steps,
Use of dropping pipette when filling to
which may be incomplete
mark
Stopper, invert several times to mix
There is an attempt at a logical structure
with a line of reasoning. The information is
Examiner’s Comments
in the most part relevant.
Most candidates focused on removing the
0 marks
water of crystallisation, often going to great
No response or no response worthy of
depths of explanation, with apparatus
credit.
diagrams, of how to remove it. Some
candidates then went on to explain how to
make a standard solution and could be
given marks. Calculations for the mass
required were often correct or could be
given some marks.

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Exemplar 3

This in a response of a common approach

to this question, it was given 4 marks.
Despite calculating the mass properly, the
candidate then put all their efforts into
describing removing the water of
crystallisation and left out the valuable fine
detail required for a Level 3 response.

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b 2(AO2.2× MAX 1 mark if no ‘+’ sign for oxidation

2) number

Element oxidised: Oxygen/O ALLOW 2–

Change from: –2 to 0 ✓
ALLOW 5+ AND 4+
Element reduced: Nitrogen/N
Change from +5 to +4 ✓ ALLOW O2 for oxygen

ALLOW 1 mark for all oxidation numbers

correct, but oxidised and reduced the
wrong way around

IGNORE numbers around equation

i.e. treat as rough working

Examiner’s Comments

Less than half the candidates answered

this question correctly. This may be
because they are not used to assigning
oxidation numbers within formulae that
contain brackets.

Total 8

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12 a i Titre/cm3 24.20 23.85 24.30 ✓ 2 (AO2.4) DO NOT ALLOW 24.2 OR 24.3

Correct subtractions to obtain titres to 2 DP Examiner’s Comments

Most candidates added correct titres for

the three titrations. However, an error
made by a quarter of candidates was to
omit the zero as the second decimal place
in the first and third titres. This should have
been usual practice from candidate
experience of practical work and has also
been highlighted as a common error in
previous exam series.

ii (AO2.4) DO NOT ALLOW mean of all three titres,

i.e. using concordant (consistent) titres

ALLOW ECF from incorrect concordant
titres from 22a(i)

Examiner’s Comments

Most candidates identified that the first and

third titres were concordant and calculated
the mean titre that should be used as
24.25 cm3. About a third of candidates
calculated the mean of all 3 titres as 24.10
or 24.12 cm3. Normal practice in titrations
would be to select the closest titres.

OCR support

The Practical Skills handbook contains

guidance on correct practice for recording
titration results and calculating average
titre values in Appendix 4: Measurements,
which can be shared with students:
[Link]
[Link].

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b FIRST CHECK THE ANSWER ON 3 ALLOW 3SF or more throughout

ANSWER (AO2.8×3 IGNORE trailing zeroes,
LINE IF answer = 0.309 (mol dm–3) award ) e.g. ALLOW 0.075 for 0.00750
3 marks ---------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------

n(Na2CO3)
= 3.75 × 10–3 (mol) ✓

n(HCl)
= 2 × n(Na2CO3) = 7.50 × 10–3 (mol) ✓ ALLOW ECF from 2 × incorrect n(Na2CO3)

[HCl] to 3 SF ALLOW ECF from incorrect n(HCl),

OR from n(Na2CO3) if n(HCl) stage omitted

ALLOW ECF from incorrect mean titre in

b(ii)
---------------------------------------------------------

COMMON ERROR for 3 marks

From 24.10 cm3 (mean of all 3 titres in
b(ii)),
[HCl] = 0.311 (mol dm–3)

Examiner’s Comments

Exemplar 3

Many candidates were able to calculate the

amount of Na2CO3 in the titration as
0.00375 mol although a common error was
to calculate the amount of Na2CO3 in the
250 cm3 volumetric flask as 0.0375 mol.
Most candidates were credited for the
amount of HCl: twice their calculated
amount of Na2CO3. Candidates then need
to scale up this value by 1000/mean titre to
obtain the concentration as 0.309 mol
dm–3, and to quote the answer to 3
significant figures. Many candidates scaled

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up using 50.0, the burette volume, rather

than their mean titre, resulting in a
concentration 0.15 or 1.5 mol dm–3. A
significant number also rounded their value
to 2 rather than 3 significant figures.

Candidates are advised to show clear

working so that credit can be given for
such responses by applying error carried
forward. The working shown in this
response is clear. Many candidates
working was more jumbled, with
unreferenced numbers common.

c Pipette: 2 ALLOW % uncertainties to 1 SF or more,

(AO3.1×2 rounded correctly
) --------------------------------------------------------
100 = 0.16 OR 0.2 (%) ✓
Other burette volumes:

100 = 0.42 OR 0.4 (%)

100 = 0.41 OR 0.4 (%)

Burette: (using any of 3 titres or mean
titre), e.g.

100 = 0.41 OR 0.4 (%) ✓ 100 = 0.41 OR 0.4 (%)

Response does NOT need a statement of ALLOW burette volume of 50 cm3, i.e.
whether pipette or burette has greater %
uncertainty.
100 = 0.2%

ALLOW ECF from incorrect titre in 22(a)

IF BOTH calculations are ‘correct’ but ×100

is omitted BOTH times, ALLOW 1 mark

Examiner’s Comments

Most candidates The calculations here

should have reflected practical work
carried out by candidates. Candidates
were expected to realise that the pipette

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volume involves one measurement

requiring the uncertainty of ±0.04 provided
being used. As the volume measured by a
burette uses two measurements, the
uncertainty of ±0.05 must then be doubled
to obtain the percentage uncertainty. It was
very common for the burette value to be
obtained using 0.05 rather than the
doubled 0.10; some candidates doubled
both uncertainties. Another common error
was to use the volume of the burette of 50
cm3 rather than the volume of solution
measured in the burette.

OCR support

The Practical Skills handbook contains

guidance on calculating uncertainties in
Appendix 4: Measurements, which can be
shared with students: [Link]
k/Images/208932-chemistry-practical-skills-
[Link].

Total 7

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13 i Oxidised 1 ALLOW Mg loses 6 electrons: 3 Mg in

AND equation
(Mg) transfers/loses/donates 2 electrons ✓ ALLOW Mg → Mg2+ + 2e–

2 essential IGNORE oxidation numbers (even if

wrong)

Examiner’s Comments

Despite the question clearly asking for a

response in terms of the number of
electrons transferred, most candidates
answered in terms of oxidation number
changes. Candidates are recommended to
read the question and to answer in terms
of its requirements. Underlining ‘number of
electrons’ may have helped candidates to
answer the question that had been set.

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ii FIRST CHECK ANSWER ON THE 3

ANSWER LINE
IF answer = 2.26 (3 SF) award 3 marks
-----------------------------------------------------
At least 3SF needed throughout BUT
ALLOW no trailing zeroes (e.g. 0.062 for
✓ 0.0620)

ALLOW ECF from n(H3PO4)

ALLOW ECF from n(Mg)

mass of Mg = 0.0930 × 24.3 = 2.26 (g) ✓
---------------------------------------------
3 SF required COMMON ERRORS for 2 marks
3:2 ratio omitted → n(Mg) = 0.062(0) → 1.51
(g)
Inverted 2:3 ratio → n(Mg) = 0.0413 → 1.00
(g)

Examiner’s Comments

Most candidates are competent at

answering questions based on the mole.
Almost all candidates were able to
calculate the amount of H3PO4 as 0.062
mol. Candidates then needed to use the
2:3 mole stoichiometric ratio to show that
0.093 mol of Mg reacts, which has a mass
of 2.26 g to the required 3 significant
figures. The commonest errors were use of
the inverse 3:2 ratio to obtain 1.00 g Mg, or
to omit the ratio to obtain 1.51 g Mg, as
shown in the exemplar. Candidates are
advised to show clear working so that
credit can be awarded for such responses
by applying error carried forward.

Exemplar 1

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iii Separation of solid 2 ALLOW

Filter to obtain solid/precipitate ✓ Removal of water
Requires realisation that solid is Evaporate/ distil water/solution/liquid
filtered off. ✓
Solid may be stated within in IGNORE ‘distil’ if product OR H2 is
‘removal of water’ distilled
Removal of water Collection of remaining solid ✓
Dry (solid) Requires realisation that solid
OR Evaporate (water/solution/liquid) remains
✓ IGNORE ‘Leave to crystallise’ (already
solid)

Examiner’s Comments

Candidates often struggle with questions

based on practical work. There were many
random responses to this question, with
relatively few candidates identifying that
solid magnesium phosphate could be
obtained by filtration, followed by drying.

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iv Formula 2 In equation:
MgO OR Mg(OH)2 OR MgCO3 OR NO ECF from incorrect formula
soluble Mg salt ✓ ALLOW multiples
Equation IGNORE state symbols (even if incorrect)
3MgO + 2H3PO4 → Mg3(PO4)2 + 3H2O
OR
3Mg(OH)2 + 2H3PO4 → Mg3(PO4)2 +
6H2O Soluble Mg salts include
OR MgCl2, MgSO4, Mg(NO3)2, MgBr2, MgI2
3MgCO3 + 2H3PO4 → Mg3(PO4)2 + If unsure, check with TL
3CO2 + 3H2O e.g. 3MgCl2 + 2H3PO4 → Mg3(PO4)2 + 6HCl

Examiner’s Comments

Candidates were expected to identify a

suitable reagent for this reaction, with most
choosing magnesium oxide, hydroxide or
carbonate. Credit was also given for using
a soluble magnesium salt such as its
sulfate, chloride or nitrate. The correct
equation often followed, but errors
sometimes appeared in the form of
incorrect formulae, such as MgOH for
magnesium hydroxide. The exemplar
shows a good clear response, using MgO
as the reagent.

Exemplar 2

Total 8

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14 A 1 Examiner’s Comments

Candidates found this part difficult with

many selecting B, the equation that looked
a little different, rather than the correct
answer of A (a redox equation). This
suggests that many candidates are
unaware of the role of ammonia as a base.

Total 1

15 C 1 ALLOW +6

Examiner’s Comments

Nearly all candidates responded with the

correct response of C. Candidates seem to
have a very good understanding of
applying oxidation number rules.

Total 1

16 D 1 Examiner’s Comments

Candidates needed to do a lot of work to

solve this problem and most wrote
oxidation numbers around the equations.
This systematic process allowed most
candidates to find that D is the only option
in which sulfur is oxidised.

Total 1

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17 i Disproportionation 3
Oxidation AND reduction of same ALLOW I or I2 for iodine
element/iodine IGNORE numbers around equation for
oxidation states
OR
Iodine has been oxidised and Iodine ALLOW 1– for –1 AND 1+ for +1
has been reduced ✓
NOTE (for iodine/I2) from 0 only needs to
Oxidation be seen once, does not need to be stated
from 0 to +1 in HIO ✓ twice

Reduction ALLOW 1 mark for 3 ox nos correct but no

from 0 to –1 in HI ✓ mention of words oxidation/reduction:
0 in I2 AND –1 in HI AND +1 in HIO

ALLOW 1 mark for species missing:

Iodine oxidised (from 0) to +1
AND iodine reduced (from 0) to –1

Examiner’s Comments

Most candidates were aware of

disproportionation but lost marks by not
stating the species or whether the process
was oxidation or reduction.

Exemplar 2

Here the candidate has lost a mark for not

stating the initial oxidation number of
elemental iodine as 0.

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ii Chlorine is toxic/poisonous 1 ALLOW (reacts with hydrocarbons to) form

OR carcinogens/toxic compounds
forms halogenated hydrocarbons
OR IGNORE
forms carcinogens/toxic compounds ✓
chlorine causes cancer
harmful/dangerous
chlorine causes breathing problems

Examiner’s Comments

The majority of candidates stated that

chlorine is toxic or forms carcinogens,
although some stated that chlorine is a
carcinogen which was not credited. 12

Total 4

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18 a Releases OH– (ions in aqueous solution) 1 ALLOW containing OH– ions

✓ IGNORE mention of pH

Examiner’s Comments

Many candidates stated a Brønsted–Lowry

definition or gave pH values. Of the
candidates that did mention OH- ions, most
did not state ‘releases’ OH- ions in solution,
although they were credited with the mark.

b i Final 27.30 27.00 27.75 4 ANNOTATE ANSWER WITH TICKS AND

reading/ CROSSES ETC
cm3
Initial 0.45 0.60 1.25
reading/
ALLOW missing zeroes for burette
cm3
readings
Titre/cm3 26.85 26.40 26.50 i.e. 0.6 for 0.60
27 OR 27.0 for 27.00
Initial and final readings
All burette readings (×6) correct ✓ ALLOW ECF from incorrect burette
readings
Titres recorded to two decimal places with
the last figure either 0 or 5
Correct subtractions to obtain final IF MEAN IS CALCULATED FROM ECF, IT
titre values ✓ MUST BE FROM CLOSEST TITRES

Mean titre calculated from concordant ALLOW ecf from incorrect mean
results DO NOT ALLOW 26.5 cm3
Correct mean titre = 26.45 (cm3) ✓ Question asks for nearest 0.05 cm3

Mean titre recorded to accuracy of burette Examiner’s Comments

Final answer recorded to two
decimal places with Most candidates were able to accurately
the last figure either 0 or 5 ✓ record the burette readings and made the
correct subtractions. Despite the
examination question requesting the mean
titre to be recorded to the accuracy of the
burette, many candidates did not do this. A
common error was taking a mean of all
three readings instead of only the
concordant results; this led the candidates
to give an answer of 26.58 which lost them
2 marks.

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ii 1 ALLOW 0.4 up to full calculation display of

0.372439478
ALLOW ECF FOR CORRECT
CALCULATION FROM 1 (c) (i) OR USE
OF ANY TITRE

Examiner’s Comments

A good attempt by many candidates but

some did not know how to calculate this or
did not multiply by 2.

iii Use a (250 cm3) volumetric flask (instead 1 IGNORE graduated flask
of a beaker)✓
Examiner’s Comments

Although there were some excellent

descriptions of the correct processes, such
as inverting the apparatus to ensure mixing
and then making the solution up to the
mark, many candidates could not name a
volumetric flask.

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c i FIRST CHECK ANSWER ON ANSWER 4 ANNOTATE ANSWER WITH TICKS AND

LINE CROSSES ETC
If answer = 118 (g mol–1) award 4 marks Throughout: IGNORE trailing zeroes in
If answer = 108 (g mol–1) award 3 marks intermediate working,
___________________________________ e.g. For n(NaOH) ALLOW 0.0028 for
n(NaOH) 0.00280

n(A) in 25.0 cm3 ALLOW ECF from incorrect n(NaOH)

ALLOW ECF from incorrect n(A) OR

n(NaOH)
n(A) in 250 cm3
ALLOW 3 sig fig up to full calculator
display correctly rounded (0.012820512)

ALLOW ECF from incorrect n(NaOH)

Molar mass, M(A) to nearest whole _____________________________________
number. Possible ECFs for 3 marks
1.513 ÷ (0.00140 × 250/25) = 108
1.513 ÷ 0.00140 = 1081
No ÷2 for n(A)
• Molar mass A = 59 (g mol–1)
Using mean titre of 26.45 cm3 from 1c(i)
• Molar mass A = 114 (g mol–1)
Using 27.3 × 0.112 in M1 and then 25.0 in
M3
• Molar mass A = 99 (g mol–1)

Examiner’s Comments

Although there were some excellent

descriptions of the correct processes, such
as inverting the apparatus to ensure mixing
and then making the solution up to the
mark, many candidates could not name a
volumetric flask.

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ii Structure of dicarboxylic acid 1 ALLOW correct structural OR skeletal OR

HOOCCH2CH2COOH OR displayed formulae OR a combination
HOOCCH(CH3)COOH ✓
ALLOW incorrect connectivity e.g –HO
STRUCTURE MUST MATCH Mr from
answer to 1 d) i) (within 10 AMU) ALLOW ECF from incorrect molar mass in
(d)(i) but only if 2 × COOH possible and Mr
is a close match to (d) (i) within 10 AMU

Examiner’s Comments

Most candidates that obtained a sensible

value for the previous question managed to
draw a creditable structure. Allowing error
carried forward meant that feasibly derived
structures could be credited a mark.

d A solution of known concentration ✓ 1 ALLOW description of concentration

Examiner’s Comments

Many candidates gave a good description

of standard conditions or stated 1 mol
dm–3, but that did not answer the question
so no marks could be credited.

Total 13

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19 a Not correct about the solid remaining in the 2

weighing bottle (weighed by difference)
AND
Correct about the solution in the beaker (1)

Rinse out the beaker with distilled water

and transfer to the volumetric flask before
making up to 250 cm3 (1)

b i Initial reading = 0.60 (cm3) 1

Final reading = 22.80 (cm3)
Titre = 22.20 cm3

Initial and final values recorded to two

decimal places AND titre recorded to the
nearest 0.05 cm3 with correct units

ii Suggests repeating the titration to obtain 1

consistent / concordant results (those that
agree to within 0.1 cm3)
AND calculating the mean titre

c i n(HCl) = (0.100)(answer to (c)(i)/1000) = 2 allow ecf from (b)(i)

0.00222 (mol) (1)

n(M2CO3) = 0.00222/2 = 0.00111 (mol) (1)

ii n(M2CO3) in total = 0.00111 x 10 = 0.0111 4

mol (1)

Molar mass = 1.58/0.0111 = 142.3 g mol–1

(1) Note: molar mass is between K2CO3
(138.2) and SrCO3 (147.6); only possible
Mass of M = (142.3 – 60)/2 = 41.15 (= K) match for a Group 1 carbonate is K2CO3.
(1)

K2CO3 (1)

Total 10

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20 i 2 For the first mark, if eight electrons are

shown in the cation then the ‘extra’
electron in the anion must match the
symbol chosen for electrons in the cation

ignore inner shell electrons

Circles not essential

allow One mark if both electron

arrangement and charges are correct but
only one Cl is drawn
Barium ion with no (or eight) electrons
AND allow 2[Cl]– (Bracket not required)
two chloride ions with correct dot-and-
cross octet (1)

Correct charges (1)

ii Barium hydroxide OR barium oxide OR 1 allow Ba(OH)2 OR BaO OR BaCO3

barium carbonate

Total 3

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21 a (Acid) releases H+ ions/ H+ donor 1 ALLOW H+ OR proton

AND
(weak acid) partially dissociates/ionises ✓ IGNORE vague responses that do not
imply a number, e.g.

poor proton donor

IGNORE ‘doesn’t easily dissociate’

IGNORE ‘a strong acid completely

dissociates’
Question is about a weak acid

Examiner’s Comments
Most candidates were aware that an acid is
a proton donor but many candidates gave
imprecise responses for the concept of a
weak acid. Good candidates used the
expected term ‘partial dissociation’, but
weaker candidates often focused on a
lower concentration of hydrogen ions, pH
range or indicator colour.

b i 2 Al(s) + 6 CH3COOHCaq) → 2 1 ALLOW multiples, e.g.

(CH3COO3Al(aq) + 3 H2(g) ✓
Al(s) + 3CH3COOH(aq) →
(CH3COO)3A1(aq) + 1½H2(g)

Examiner’s Comments
The majority of candidates were able to
balance this equation using whole numbers
or half multiples. Where there was an error,
it was invariably for the balancing number
of H2.

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ii Element oxidised: aluminium/Al 0 to +3 ✓ 2 ALLOW 3+ for +3 and 1+ for +1

Element reduced: hydrogen/H +1 to 0 ✓
ALLOW H2 for hydrogen

ALLOW 1 mark for elements AND all

oxidation numbers correct, but H in
oxidised line and Al in reduced line

‘+’ is required in +3 and +1 oxidation

numbers

IGNORE numbers around equation

(treat as rough working)

Examiner’s Comments
This question was not answered as well as
expected. It was pleasing to see that
almost all candidates recognised the
importance of writing oxidation numbers
correctly including a ‘+’ or ‘–‘ sign where
needed. Common mistakes included giving
the total contribution from an element as
opposed to the oxidation state of each
atom of the element.

Total 4

22 D 1
Examiner’s Comments
This question differentiated well. It
appeared as if many candidates did not
multiply the maximum error by 2 or used
the final reading as opposed to
a calculated titre.

Total 1

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23 2 MAX 1 mark if no ‘+’ sign for oxidation

Element aluminium/Al 0 to +3 ✓ number
oxidised:
Element hydrogen/H/H+ +1 to 0 ✓ ALLOW 3+
reduced:
ALLOW 1+

ALLOW H2 for hydrogen

ALLOW 1 mark for all oxidation numbers

correct, but oxidised and reduced the
wrong way around

IGNORE numbers around equation

i.e. treat as rough working

Examiner's Comments

A good proportion of candidates were able

to achieve the 2 marks here. A minority
correctly identified the elements, but not
the oxidation numbers. Aluminium was
credited more often than hydrogen,
perhaps as only some of the hydrogen
atoms are reduced. Some amazing
oxidation states were claimed for S, O, Al
and H with more electrons lost than the
atoms had. Very few candidates assigned
the oxidation and reduction incorrectly.

Total 2

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24 i NiO + 2HNO3 → Ni(NO3)2 + H2O ✓ 1 ALLOW multiples

IGNORE state symbols (even if wrong)

Examiner's Comments

This part was surprisingly poorly answered.

Common errors included incorrect
formulae for nickel(II) oxide and HNO3, and
H2 shown as a product instead of H2O.

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ii 2 NOT REQUIRED

Charge (‘–’)
Brackets
Circles

IGNORE inner shells

ALLOW rotated diagram

Global rules ALLOW diagram with missing N or O

symbols. Shown as diagram on QP
anyway
N and O electrons must be shown
differently, e.g. • for N and × for O
‘Extra’ electron shown with different
symbol

MARKING
Bonding around central N atom ✓ In N=O bond, ALLOW sequence × × • •

In N–O bond, ALLOW ‘extra’ electron with

5 electrons for N shown as • OR × different symbol for O electron
3 electrons for O, different from N
as • OR × ALLOW non-bonding electrons unpaired

N=O bond with 2 N electrons AND 2 O

electrons If ‘extra’ electron has been used in N–O–
N→O bond with 2 N electrons bond, N–O– oxygen MUST have 6 nb ‘O’
N–O bond with 1 N electron AND 1 O electrons
electron
ALLOW ‘extra’ electron as • OR × if it has
Non-bonded (nb) electrons around 3 O been labelled ‘extra electron’ or similar
atoms ✓
Examiner's Comments

N=O oxygen has 4 nb ‘O’ electrons Most candidates attempted this novel ‘dot-
N⟶O oxygen has 6 nb ‘O’ electrons and-cross’ diagram. Many candidates
N–O– oxygen has 5 nb ‘O’ electrons correctly showed the bonding electrons
AND 1 ‘extra’ electron with different around the central nitrogen atom. The
symbol remaining electrons around the oxygen
atoms proved to be more difficult, with
many omitting to show the ‘extra electron’.

Total 3

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25 A 1
Examiner's Comments

Candidates were clearly unsure on how to

classify a neutralisation reaction, with D
being a common incorrect answer.

Total 1

26 C 1 ALLOW +5 OR 5+ in box

Examiner's Comments

Generally scored well.

Total 1

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27 a i Effervescence OR fizzing OR bubbling OR 1 ALLOW ‘carbon dioxide produced’

gas produced DO NOT ALLOW incorrectly named gas eg
AND H2
The solid OR zinc carbonate would
dissolve OR disappear ✓ Examiner's Comments

Most candidates realised that

effervescence and dissolving would be
seen.

ii ZnCO3 + 2HCl ZnCl2 + CO2 + H2O ✓ 1 ALLOW multiples

IGNORE state symbols

Examiner's Comments

Nearly all candidates were able to write the

equation successfully – including those
who had omitted effervescence in (i).

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b i Magnesium (atoms) has been oxidised 2 IGNORE use of oxidation numbers if

AND electron gain/loss is mentioned.
Because it has lost two electrons ✓ Electrons gain/loss could be in half
equations
In the absence of text look for evidence on
Copper (ions) has been reduced the equation
AND ALLOW ‘donated’ for ‘lost’
Because it has gained two electrons ✓

Assume ‘Cu’ refers to copper in ‘CuSO4’

ALLOW one mark two electrons gained
and lost for each species but
oxidation/reduction is incorrect or is
omitted

ALLOW one mark for correct oxidation and

reduction if electron transfer is omitted and
correct changes of oxidation state are
shown (ie Mg 0 --> (+)2 AND Cu (+)2 to 0)

ALLOW ‘two electrons transferred from

magnesium to copper

Examiner's Comments

This type of question in the past has

proved difficult but the current cohort found
little difficulty. By far, the most common
error was to use changes in oxidation
numbers as the basis of the redox rather
than using the number of electrons gained
and lost for the explanation of the redox
process.

ii Mg(s) + 2H2O(l) Mg(OH) 2(aq) + H2(g) 2 ALLOW multiples

Correct reactants and products ✓ ALLOW Mg(OH)2(s)
Balance and state symbols ✓ ALLOW Mg(s) + H2O(g) OR H2O(l) MgO(s)
+ H2(g) including state symbols for one
mark

Examiner's Comments

The equation for the reaction between

magnesium and water was well known –
but many erroneously assumed MgO was
formed.

Total 6

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28 i δ– on each F AND δ+ on O ✓ 1 ALLOW δ2+ OR δ+ δ+ on O

Examiner's Comments

The application of dipoles to the molecule

was done well.

ii Shape: non-linear 1 For shape

ALLOW alternative words eg ‘V-shaped’
AND ‘bent’ ‘angular’.
In the absence of words allow a diagram
Bond angle: 104.5° ✓ with a non-linear shape F – O – F bond
angle > 90°.
For bond angle
ALLOW 106> bond angle ≥102 (Actual =
102°)

Examiner's Comments

Only a few candidates failed to realise that

two bonding pairs and two non-bonding
pairs would lead to the molecule being
bent-shaped with an expected bond angle
of 104.5°.

iii +2 ✓ 1 ALLOW 2+

Examiner's Comments

The question told candidates that fluorine

was the most electronegative element
which should have led them to realising
that oxygen's oxidation state had to be a
positive number. Many chose to ignore this
despite allocating the oxygen atom a
partial positive charge in part (i).

Total 3

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29 i N2O3 = +3 1 ALLOW ‘3’ OR ‘3+’ etc

NO = +2 ALLOW oxidation numbers written over the

equation but

NO2 = +4 ✓ IGNORE if oxidation numbers are given on

the answer lines

Examiner's Comments

The correct answer was almost universally

known.

ii Disproportionation ✓ 1 QWC ‘disproportionation’ spelled correctly.

Examiner's Comments

The correct answer was almost universally

known with just the rare misspelling of
disproportionation seen.

Total 2

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30 a i carbon dioxide lost/evolved/given off/or 1 DO NOT ALLOW water or steam or CO2

produced as a gas ✓ evaporates

Examiner's Comments

Candidates who failed to state that the gas

being lost was CO2 could not access the
mark for this question. Vague answers
relating to water being produced, products
being gases, products being lost or a gas
evolved were often given by Candidates.

ii FIRST CHECK ANSWER ON THE 3 If there is an alternative answer, check to

ANSWER LINE see if there is any ECF credit possible
IF answer = 1.85 OR 1.845 g award 3
marks
______________________________
n(HNO3)

ALLOW ECF from incorrect n(HNO3)

m(SrCO3) molar mass of SrCO3 = 147.6 (g mol–1)

= 0.0125 × 147.6 = 1.845 g OR 1.85 g ✓ ALLOW ECF from incorrect n(SrCO3)

Examiner's Comments

The vast majority of candidates were able

to complete this calculation arriving at the
correct answer to score all three available
marks. The most common error was in
calculating the amount, in moles, of the
SrCO3 from the stoichiometry given in the
equation. This resulted in an answer which
was twice that expected however two
marks could still be obtained by applying
error carried forward.

Answer = 1.845 g or 1.85 g

b i rate of reaction decreases 1 ALLOW reaction slows down

AND
concentration decreases / reactants are ALLOW concentration of reactants
used up ✓ decreases.

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i less frequent collisions ✓ 1 ALLOW fewer collisions per unit time

OR collisions less often
OR decreased rate of collision

IGNORE less successful collisions / less

collisions less chance of collisions

Examiner's Comments

Very few candidates were able to explain

the change in the rate of the reaction
during the first 200 seconds of the
experiment. This relatively straightforward
question required a statement that the rate
decreases as the concentration of the
reactants decreases due to there being
less frequent collisions. Although a large
number of candidates were able to state
that the rate decreases few were able to
explain why. This was possibly due to
candidates having to apply their
understanding in an unfamiliar context
rather than from a lack of knowledge

ii Attempted tangent on graph drawn to line 1

at approximately t = 200 s ✓

ii Gradient (y/x) 1 ALLOW 1 SF up to calculator value,

in range 5 × 10–4 to 8 × 10–4

IGNORE units
IGNORE sign

Examiner's Comments

This was the first time AS level candidates

have been required to calculate a rate of
reaction from a graph and many found this
quite testing. Although many knew that a
tangent was required only the most able
candidates were able to arrive at a value
for the gradient that was within the
expected range. Candidates sometimes
took as their values the point at which their
tangent cut the axes rather than calculating
the change in mass or change in time.

Acceptable range 5 × 10–4 to 8 × 10–4

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c Flask OR beaker 1 DO NOT ALLOW round-bottomed flask.

AND
balance IGNORE weighing scales
AND
stopwatch OR stop clock OR other timing
device ✓

Records mass at time intervals ✓ 1 ALLOW ‘weigh at time intervals’

Time interval quoted between 10-50s ✓ 1

Examiner's Comments

This was the second question that required

candidates to describe an experiment that
they could have carried out as part of their
course. Even if this experiment had not
been completed in class, candidates
should be able to recognise that mass
needs to be measured over a period of
time. As the reaction was between an acid
and a carbonate a suitable named reaction
vessel such as a beaker or flask was
required. A balance was needed for mass
measurement and a timing device to
monitor time. A simple statement that mass
should be recorded at a given time interval
scored two marks with one mark being
allocated to suitable apparatus. At this
level it is expected that candidates will be
familiar with the correct names for the
apparatus required to carry out an
investigation.

Total 11

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31 i 1s22s22p63s2 ✓ 1 ALLOW upper case S and P, and

subscripts, e.g. ......2S23P6

Examiner's Comments

This part was generally answered well

showing a good understanding of electron
configuration. Candidates frequently used
subscripts rather than superscripts for
denoting the number of electrons in a
particular sub-shell and although this was
still credited the correct use of notation
should be emphasised in lessons.

ii (Mg) loses / transfers / donates two 1 ALLOW Mg loses the 3s electrons

electrons ✓ provided electronic configuration in (i) is 3s2

ALLOW Mg → Mg2+ + 2e–

IGNORE reference to oxidation numbers /

states

Examiner's Comments

Most candidates understood that oxidation

resulted in the loss of electrons although
some answers considered changes in
oxidation number. A significant number of
candidates did not specify how many
electrons were lost when magnesium was
oxidised preventing the award of the mark.

Total 2

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32 a i Mol of H2SO4 = 0.100 × 18.00 / 1000 = 1 ALLOW calculator value or rounding to 2

1.80 × 10–3 mol ✔ significant figures or more but IGNORE
‘trailing zeroes’ throughout Q4.
eg 0.200 is allowed as 0.2

Examiner's Comments

This opening part to the calculation was

relatively straightforward and almost all
candidates scored this mark. Even when
the mark was not awarded it was often not
because of a lack of knowledge of the
formula but because the student used the
incorrect volume of 29.50 cm3.

ii Mol of NaOH in = 1.80 × 10–3 × 2 × 1000 / 1 ALLOW ECF for (a)(i) × 2 × 1000 / 25
25.0 = 0.144 mol dm–3 ✔
Examiner's Comments

Candidates who had answered correctly

part (i) were able to give the right answer
here but some muddled the stoichiometric
ratio. Another source of error was to use
the wrong volume of NaOH, with some
opting to use 200 cm3 as this was the total
volume of solution X.

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b i Check the answer line. 2 If there is an alternative answer, check to

If answer = 0.0184 mol award 2 marks see if there is any ECF credit possible
using working below.

Mol of NaHCO3 in 25.0 cm3 = [0.100 × ALLOW for an alternative method for M1
11.50 / 1000] × 2 = 0.00230 mol ✔ Total mol of H2SO4 used = [0.100 × 29.50 /
1000] = 0.00295 mol

Mol of H2SO4 reacting with NaHCO3 =

0.00295 – answer to (a)(i)
Mol of NaHCO3 in 200 cm3 = 0.00230 × Expected answer = .00295 – 0.00180 =
200 / 25.0 = 0.0184 mol ✔ 0.00115 mol

Mol of NaHCO3 in 25.0 cm3 = 0.00115 × 2

= 0.00230 mol

ALLOW ECF for mol of NaHCO3 × 200 /

25.0

For ECF in M2 titration values of 11.50 or

29.50 must have been used in M1

Second marking point is for scaling up

number of mol of NaHCO3 by 200 / 25.0
(Usually seen as ‘8’)

Examiner's Comments

This was probably the most challenging

question on the paper and many
candidates could not see the route to the
answer. Encouragingly many did see the
need to find the difference in the two titres
and so their calculations did involve 11.50
cm3. The second mark for scaling up the
amount was not often awarded.

ii Mass of NaHCO3 = 0.0184 × 84.0 = 1.55 g 1 ALLOW ECF for (b)(i) × 84.0 correctly
✔ calculated and rounded to three significant
(must be three significant figures) figures.

Examiner's Comments

In essence this was a very easy question

that simply required candidates to multiply
their answer to (i) by 84.0 and give the
answer to 3 significant figures.

Total 5

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33 a Base: A substance which readily accepts 2 ALLOW proton acceptor

H+ ions (from an acid) ✔
Alkali: releases OH– ions into (aqueous) ALLOW Is soluble and releases OH– ions
solution ✔ (into aqueous solution)

Examiner's Comments

Of the two parts, the definition of base was

more often given correctly. A few weaker
candidates described a base in terms of
the reaction with acids to give salts but
most gave the correct answer. The
description of an alkali was less well
answered with some commenting on the
presence of OH– ions and others on the
solubility but few doing both.

b Nitric acid OR HNO3 ✔ 2 ALLOW reagent mark if no response is

seen but HNO3 is seen in the equation
CaCO3 + 2HNO3 → Ca(NO3)2 + H2O + CO2 IGNORE calcium carbonate on reagent
✔ line

ALLOW multiples
IGNORE state symbols

DO NOT ALLOW H2CO3 for H2O + CO2

Examiner's Comments

Most students identified the reagent as

nitric acid but the equation proved more
challenging. Most common errors were to
give the formula as H2NO3 or calcium
nitrate as CaNO3.

Total 4

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34 Cl (has been oxidised) from Cl = –1 to Cl = 2 ALLOW 4+ OR 4 OR 2+ OR 2

0✔ ALLOW oxidation numbers written above
Mn (has been reduced) from Mn = +4 to the equation but IGNORE these if oxidation
Mn = +2 ✔ numbers are given in the text

ALLOW one mark for Cl is oxidised

because the oxidation number increased
by 1 AND Mn is reduced because the
oxidation number decreased by 2
ALLOW one mark if all oxidation numbers
are correct but redox is incorrect.
IGNORE HCl is oxidised AND MnO2 is
reduced
IGNORE correct references to electron
loss / gain
DO NOT ALLOW incorrect references to
electron loss / gain

Examiner's Comments

Overall the answer to this question could

be determined by most candidates. Some
were confused by the fact that Cl appeared
in two oxidation states in the products and
suggested that this was a type of
disproportionation reaction with the Cl in
MnCl2 having a –2 oxidation state.

Total 2

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35 i Hydrogen ✔ 1 ALLOW H2
IGNORE ‘H’

Examiner's Comments

This question was well answered although

the erroneous appearance of water as a
product of the reaction between an acid
and a metal was seen relatively frequently.

ii Ce2(SO4)3 ✔ 2 ALLOW alternative phrases for ‘loses’ eg

‘gives away’, ‘donates’
(Cerium) loses three electrons (to form 3+ IGNORE ‘3 electrons transferred’ unless a
ion) ✔ correct direction is given eg ALLOW (Ce)
transfers 3 electrons to …OR (Ce)
transfers 3 electrons forming Ce3+
IGNORE references to sulfate gaining
electrons
IGNORE references to reduction and
oxidation

Examiner's Comments

This question was slightly more

challenging and discriminated well. Some
candidates missed the fact that the cerium
was in the +3 oxidation state and gave the
formula as CeSO4 along with an
explanation that involved the loss of 2
electrons. However, a significant number of
candidates did not focus upon the
instruction in the question to explain ‘in
terms of the number of electrons
transferred’ and gave responses based
solely upon changes in oxidation number.

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iii A hydrogen ion (of an acid) has been 1 For hydrogen ion:
replaced by a metal ion ✔ ALLOW ‘H+’ OR ‘proton’
but DO NOT ALLOW ‘H’ OR ‘hydrogen’
without ‘ion’
For metal ion:
ALLOW ‘cerium ion’ OR ‘Ce3+’ OR ‘Ce2+’
OR ‘Ce ion’
But DO NOT ALLOW ‘Ce’ without ‘ion’ OR
‘cerium’ without ‘ion’
IGNORE ‘ammonium ion’

Examiner's Comments

A good number of candidates had no

problem with this question but slightly
weaker students talked vaguely about the
reaction of metals with acids and clearly
did not realise that the question was really
examining how well they understood the
definition of a salt.

Total 4

36 i H3PO4 ✔ 1 ALLOW formula if seen as reactant in an

equation
IGNORE name

Examiner's Comments

This question was well answered although

it was common to see incorrect formulae
such as HPO4 from weaker candidates.

ii Calcium oxide OR calcium hydroxide OR 1 IGNORE formulae

calcium carbonate ✔ IGNORE lime, quicklime and limestone

Examiner's Comments

Nearly all candidates knew the answer to

this question, but not all gained the mark
here as many gave the formula of the base
rather than its name, despite the question
stressing the need for the name.

Total 2

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37 Oxidised AND because aluminium has lost 1 ALLOW ‘donated’ for ‘lost’
(three) electrons ✔ IGNORE where electrons are transferred
to
IGNORE Al → Al3+ + 3e-
DO NOT ALLOW ‘an electron’ or incorrect
number of electrons

Examiner's Comments

This question was very well answered.

Where candidates did not gain the mark it
was often because they forgot to discuss
the oxidation of aluminium in terms of
electron loss, but instead justified it in by
using oxidation numbers.

Total 1

38 a volumetric flask 1 allow graduated flask

AND
(graduated) pipette ignore burette

b FIRST CHECK THE ANSWER ON THE 3 If there is an alternative answer, check to

ANSWER LINE see if there is any ECF credit possible
IF answer = 73.9 or 73.93 (g mol–1) award using working below
3 marks for calculation

n(NaOH) = (25.25/1000) × 0.120 = 3.03 ×

10–3 (mol) (1)
n(acid in 250 cm3 flask) = 3.03 × 10–3 × 10
= 3.03 × 10–2 (mol) (1)
molar mass of unknown acid = 2.24/3.03 ×
10–2 = 73.9 (g mol–1) (1)

c Repeat titration until (two) titrations are 2 ignore just ‘repeat the titration’ (needs
concordant / agree within 0.1 cm3 (1) qualifying).

Calculate mean titre from concordant titres

(1)

Total 6

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39 a i Amount of each element mark 2

= 0.025 0.01875 0.0125 (1) allow 2 marks for correct answer without
working
Simplest whole number ratio empirical
formula

AND H4O3N2 (1)

ii acid: HNO3 AND base: NH3 (1) 1 allow atoms within HNO3 and NH3 in any
order

b i H2SO4 + 2NaOH → Na2SO4 + 2H2O (1) 1 allow multiples

ii Energy (into water) mark 3 allow rounding to 4828 OR 4830

70.0 × 4.18 × 16.5 = 4827.9 (J) or 4.8279
(kJ) (1) allow amount of substance mark to be
based upon either HCl or NaOH
amount of substance mark

allow ecf for

ΔneutH mark
(–)4.8279 / 0.084(0) =
(–)57.475 OR (–)57.48 OR (–)57.5 (1)

Correctly rounded to at least 3 significant

figures

iii 1 mole of water had been formed (1) 1

iv 1
(1)

Total 9

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40 i Yield decreases 1
AND allow moved towards reactants OR moved
Equilibrium (position) has moved to the left towards CO and H2

ii Oxidised 2
Nitrogen AND –3 AND +2 (1)
Reduced
Oxygen AND 0 AND –2 (1)

Total 3

41 A 1

Total 1

42 D 1

Total 1

43 A 1

Total 1

44 Element oxidised: zinc / Zn 0 to +2 (1) 2 allow 1 mark for all oxidation numbers
Element reduced: carbon / C +4 to +2 (1) correct, but oxidised and reduced the
wrong way around

max 1 mark if missing ‘+’ or ‘if given as

charges e.g. ‘2+’

Total 2

45 D 1

Total 1

46 C 1

Total 1

47 A 1

Total 1

48 C 1

Total 1

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