IGCSE Cambridge (CIE) Chemistry 3 hours 22 questions

Theory Questions

Giant Structures
Diamond & Graphite / Silicon(IV) Oxide / Metallic Bonding

Easy (5 questions) /31 Scan here to return to the course

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Medium (10 questions) /87

Hard (7 questions) /76

Total Marks /194

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Easy Questions
1 Extended Only
Complete the following table.

type of particles present electrical electrical example

structure conductivity conductivity of
of solid liquid

ionic positive and poor ........................ ........................

negative ions

macromolecular atoms of two poor poor ........................

different
elements in a
giant covalent
structure

metallic ........................ good ........................ copper

and

........................

[6]

Answer

The completed table is:

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 type of particles electrical electrical example
structure present conductivity conductivity
of solid of liquid

ionic positive and poor good; [1 any correct ionic

negative ions mark] compound; [1
mark]

e.g. sodium
chloride

macromolecular atoms of two poor poor silicon OR

different silicon (IV) oxide
elements in a OR sand OR
giant covalent silicon dioxide;
structure [1 mark]

metallic electrons; [1 good good; [1 copper

mark] mark]
and

positive ions;
[1 mark]

[Total: 6 marks]

Summary tables such as this are a great way of testing your overall knowledge
of bonding
You should be able to describe the structure, give properties and examples of
each substance
Some questions will ask you to further explain these properties such as
conductivity so make sure you learn them!
(6 marks)

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2 (a) Diamond and graphite are different forms of the same element, carbon.

Explain the following in terms of their structure.

Graphite is a soft material which is used as a lubricant.

Answer

a) Graphite is a soft material which is used as a lubricant because:

Weak forces are between layers / between (hexagonal) rings

OR
Weak bonds between layers / between (hexagonal) rings
OR
Van der Waals forces between layers / between (hexagonal) rings; [1 mark]
(layers/rings) slip / slide (over each other) / move over each other; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

Each carbon atom is bonded to three other carbons forming these layers
Be careful- there are strong covalent bonds between atoms but only weak forces
between the layers
(2 marks)

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(b) Diamond is a very hard material which is used for drilling and cutting.

Answer

b) Diamond is a very hard material which is used for drilling and cutting because:

Strong bonds (between atoms) / covalent bonds (between atoms); [1 mark]

All bonds are covalent / strong / each atom covalently bonded / carbon (atoms) is
bonded to four others / bonds are directional / (atoms are arranged) tetrahedrally;
[1 mark]
Accept: carbon has four bonds

[Total: 2 marks]

Each carbon is bonded to four other carbons (unlike graphite which we said was
three)
These are strong covalent bonds making diamond very hard
You must make sure you learn all the properties of diamond and graphite
(2 marks)

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(c) Graphite is a good conductor of electricity and diamond is a poor conductor.

Answer

c) Graphite is a good conductor of electricity and diamond is a poor conductor because:

Graphite has delocalised / mobile / free electrons; [1 mark]

Diamond (outer shell) electrons used / fixed / localised in bonding / no delocalised
electrons / no mobile electrons / no free electrons; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

Make sure you comment on both diamond AND graphite, as the question is two
marks
One common mistake is to focus on one substance
Remember: In diamond each carbon is bonded to four other bond atoms, so
there are no free electrons, whereas in graphite each carbon is bonded to three
meaning there is one free electron per atom
(2 marks)

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3 (a) For each of the following elements give one physical property and one chemical
property.

bromine (Br2)

physical property .....................................

chemical property ....................................

Answer

a) A physical property of bromine is:

Any one of the following:

Reddish-brown / brown liquid; [1 mark]

Volatile liquid/low boiling point liquid; [1 mark]

Poor / non-conductor (of electricity); [1 mark]
Soluble in water; [1 mark]
Soluble in organic/non-polar solvents; [1 mark]
A chemical property of bromine is:

Any one of the following:

Reacts with water; [1 mark]

Reacts with iodides (in solution); [1 mark]
Displaces iodine; [1 mark]

Reacts with alkenes/named alkene/unsaturated hydrocarbons; [1 mark]

Reacts with alkane in UV/named alkane in UV; [1 mark]
Valency/oxidation state(–)1; [1 mark]
Forms Br–; [1 mark]

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 Gains / shares 1 electron; [1 mark]
Combines / reacts with metals/named metal; [1 mark]
Combines / reacts with non-metals/named non-metal; [1 mark]
Oxidising agent; [1 mark]
Bleaches litmus paper/indicator paper; [1 mark]

Corrosive; [1 mark]
Forms acidic oxides; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

Make sure you are aware of the difference between physical and chemical
properties
(2 marks)

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(b) carbon graphite (C)

physical property ...........................

chemical property .........................

Answer

b) A physical property of graphite is:

Any one of the following:

(Good) conductor (of electricity); [1 mark]

Soft; [1 mark]
Lubricant; [1 mark]
High melting point/high boiling point; [1 mark]
Grey black / black solid; [1 mark]
Slippery / greasy (to touch); [1 mark]
Brittle/breaks when subjected to stress; [1 mark]
Insoluble in water; [1 mark]
A chemical property of graphite is:

Any one of the following:

Reducing agent; [1 mark]

Reduces metal oxides / named metal oxide; [1 mark]
Reacts with/burns in air / oxygen; [1 mark]
Forms an acidic oxide (CO2); [1 mark]
Valency / oxidation state of 2 or 4; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

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Make sure you know the difference between physical and chemical properties
(2 marks)

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(c) manganese (Mn)

physical property .................................

chemical property ................................

Answer

c) A physical property of manganese is:

Any one of the following:

(Good) conductor (of heat / electricity); [1 mark]

High melting / boiling point; [1 mark]

Forms coloured compounds / coloured ions; [1 mark]
Hard / strong; [1 mark]
High density; [1 mark]
Malleable / ductile; [1 mark]
Sonorous / shiny; [1 mark]
A chemical property of manganese is:

Any one of the following:

Variable / different valency / oxidation state / oxidation number; [1 mark]

Catalytic activity; [1 mark]

Forms coloured compounds/coloured ions; [1 mark]
Forms complex ions/complexes; [1 mark]
Reacts with acids; [1 mark]
Reducing agent; [1 mark]
Reacts with non-metals; [1 mark]

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[Total: 2 marks]

Make sure that you are aware of the difference between physical and chemical
properties
Manganese is a transition metal, so it has their physical and chemical
properties
(2 marks)

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4 (a) Two macromolecular forms of carbon are graphite and diamond. The structures of
graphite and diamond are given below.

Explain in terms of its structure why graphite is soft and is a good conductor of
electricity.

Answer

a) Graphite is soft because:

(There are) weak forces between layers/sheets/rows; [1 mark]

Layers can slip/slide; [1 mark]
Graphite is a good conductor because:

Electrons can move/ (are) mobile; [1 mark]

[Total: 3 marks]

Diamond has 4 covalent bonds per carbon atom whereas graphite only has 3
It is this difference which leads to the very different properties of the two
structures
(3 marks)

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(b) State one use of graphite which depend on the above property. It is soft .............

Answer

b) A use of graphite which depends on the above property:

Lubricant; [1 mark]
[Total: 1 mark]

The only use you are required to know for graphite is as a lubricant
You need to be able to link this property to its bonding and structure

(1 mark)

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(c) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only
Silicon(IV) oxide also has a macromolecular structure.

i) Describe the macromolecular structure of silicon(IV) oxide.

[1]

ii) Predict two physical properties which diamond and silicon(IV) oxide have in common.

[2]

Answer

c)

i) The macromolecular structure of silicon(IV) oxide can be described as:

Every silicon atom is bonded / attached to 4 oxygen atoms

OR
Every oxygen atom is bonded / attached to two silicon atoms; [1 mark]
ii) Two physical properties which diamond and silicon(IV) oxide have in common are:

Any two from:

High melting point/boiling point; [1 mark]

Hard; [1 mark]
Colourless crystals / shiny; [1 mark]
Poor / non-conductor of electricity
OR
Insulator; [1 mark]
Insoluble in water; [1 mark]
[Total: 3 marks]

You need to be able to compare the structures and properties of various

materials, including diamond and silicon dioxide

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 (3 marks)

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5 (a) Extended Only
The diagram shows part of the structures of caesium chloride and carbon dioxide.

Caesium is a metal. Describe two properties that are characteristic of most metals.

Answer

a) Two properties that are characteristic of most metals are:

Any two of the following

Conduct electricity / conduct heat; [1 mark]

Ductile / can be drawn into wires; [1 mark]
Malleable / can be hammered into different shapes; [1 mark]
Lustrous / shiny; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

You should know the characteristics of metals as well as where there are located
on the Periodic Table
They lie to the left of the 'stair case' which begins underneath boron and steps
down to the right
(2 marks)

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(b) Extended Only
Magnesium is a metal.

Name and describe the bonding in magnesium.

name:

description of bonding:

Answer

b)

The bonding in magnesium is:

Name = Metallic (bonding); [1 mark]

Description of bonding:

(Delocalised / sea of) electrons; [1 mark]

Positive ions / cations; [1 mark]
Attraction between (electrons / negative and positive ions); [1 mark]
[Total: 4 marks]

You should be able to describe the bonding in metals

Make sure you make reference to the electrons being delocalised in the
structure
They are negatively charged and are attracted to the positively charged
metal ions (cations)
(4 marks)

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Medium Questions

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1 (a) Extended Only
For each of the following unfamiliar elements predict one physical and one chemical
property.

Caesium (Cs)

Physical property ..........................................................................................................

Chemical property ..........................................................................................................

Answer

a) Physical and chemical properties of caesium are:

Physical property:

Any one of the following:

Soft / can be cut (with a knife); [1 mark]

Low density / light; [1 mark]
Low melting point; [1 mark]
(Good) conductor (heat or electricity); [1 mark]

Shiny (when freshly cut) / tarnishes quickly in air; [1 mark]

Malleable / ductile; [1 mark]
Chemical property:

Any one of the following:

Reacts with water OR (Very) reactive; [1 mark]

Forms salts with halogens; [1 mark]
Reacts vigorously with acids; [1 mark]
Forms an alkaline or basic oxide; [1 mark]

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 Fixed oxidation state / oxidation number OR Has a valency of +1 / has one outer
shell electron; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

Make sure you get the physical and chemical properties the correct way around!
Chemical properties are to do with reactions and electrons only
The properties should focus on a Group 1 metal and not just metals in general
(2 marks)

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(b) Vanadium (V)

Physical property .........................................................................................................

Chemical property ..........................................................................................................

Answer

b) A physical property of vanadium is:

Any one of the following:

(Good) conductor (of heat / electricity); [1 mark]

High melting point / high boiling point; [1 mark]

Forms coloured compounds/coloured ions; [1 mark]
Hard / strong; [1 mark]
High density; [1 mark]
Malleable / ductile; [1 mark]
Silver / grey / lustrous / shiny solid; [1 mark]
Sonorous; [1 mark]
A chemical property of vanadium is:

Any one of the following:

Variable / different valency/oxidation state/oxidation number; [1 mark]

Catalytic activity; [1 mark]
Forms coloured compounds / coloured ions; [1 mark]
Forms complex ions / complexes; [1 mark]
Reducing agent; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

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The properties of transition metals include the properties of metals and also
some special characteristics, such as forming coloured compounds, that you
should be aware of
(2 marks)

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(c) Fluorine (F)

Physical property ..........................................................................................................

Chemical property ..........................................................................................................

Answer

c) Physical and chemical properties of fluorine are:

Any one of the following:

Colourless / yellow gas; [1 mark]

Low melting / boiling point; [1 mark]

Poor / non-conductor (of electricity)
OR
Does not conduct electricity in any state; [1 mark]
A chemical property of fluorine is:

Any one of the following:

Most reactive halogen / very reactive; [1 mark]

Forms ionic fluorides / bonds with metals; [1 mark]
Form covalent fluorides / bonds with non-metals; [1 mark]
Powerful oxidant / gains one electron (to be stable); [1 mark]
Fixed oxidation state / valency of –1
OR
Forms F– ions; [1 mark]
Forms acidic oxides
OR
Forms an acid when reacted with hydrogen / hydride is acidic; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

Fluorine is a small simple molecule, so is a gas at room temperature

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It is in Group VII and so it is an extremely reactive element; it is not allowed in
school so is not used in experiments but often comes up in exams so you can
apply your Group VII knowledge in a slightly different context
(2 marks)

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2 (a) Extended Only
The following table gives information about six substances.

substance melting boiling electrical electrical

point / °C point / °C conductivity as a conductivity as a
solid liquid

A 839 1484 good good

B –188 -42 poor poor

C 776 1497 poor good

D –117 78 poor poor

E 1607 2227 poor poor

F -5 102 poor good

Which substance could be a metal?

Answer

a) The substance which could be a metal is:

A; [1 mark]
[Total: 1 mark]

Metals have high melting and boiling points

There are many strong metallic bonds in giant metallic structures between
the positive metal ion and delocalised electrons
A lot of heat energy is needed to break these bonds

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 Metals conduct electricity as a solid
There are free electrons available to move through the structure and carry
charge
Electrons entering one end of the metal cause a delocalised electron to
displace itself from the other end
Hence electrons can flow so electricity is conducted
Metals conduct electricity as a liquid
The free electrons are still able to move through the liquid structure and carry
charge
(1 mark)

(b) State all the substances that are liquid at room temperature.

Answer

b) All the substances that could be a liquid at room temperature are:

AND

F; [1 mark]
[Total: 1 mark]

The highlighted word all in the question suggests that there is more than one
substance and that each of these substances is needed for the mark
To be a liquid at room temperature the melting point must be below room
temperature
(1 mark)

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(c) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only
Which substance could have a macromolecular structure similar to that of silicon(IV)
oxide?

Answer

c) The substance which could have a macromolecular structure similar to that of

silicon(IV) oxide is:

E; [1 mark]
[Total: 1 mark]

SiO2 has lots of very strong covalent bonds and no intermolecular forces so it
has similar properties to diamond
It has a very high boiling point and does not conduct electricity (as a solid or
liquid)
(1 mark)

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(d) Which substance could be propane?

Answer

d) The substance which could be propane is:

B; [1 mark]
[Total: 1 mark]

The first four alkanes are gases at room temperature.

The next twelve are liquids.

The rest are solids.

Boiling points increase with chain length because the attraction between the
molecules increases – so it takes more energy to separate them.
Propane is the 3rd alkane in the homologous series so will be a gas
This means it will have a very low melting and boiling point
Alkanes are also unable to conduct electricity as they don't contain charged
particles which are able to move and carry a charge
All electrons are tied up in covalent bonds
(1 mark)

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(e) Which substance could be sodium chloride?

Answer

e) The substance which could be sodium chloride is:

C; [1 mark]
[Total: 1 mark]

Sodium chloride is an ionic compound

As it consists of a metal and a non-metal

Ionic compounds are usually solid at room temperature

They have high melting and boiling points
Ionic compounds are good conductors of electricity in the molten state (as a
liquid) as the ions are free to move and carry charge
Ionic compounds are not good conductors of electricity as solids as the ions are
fixed and not free to move to carry charge
(1 mark)

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3 (a) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only
Carbon dioxide and silicon(IV) oxide are oxides of Group IV elements.

Complete the following table.

carbon dioxide silicon (IV) oxide

formula SiO2

melting point / °C –56 1610

physical state at 25 °C gas

conduction of electricity non-conductor

structure macromolecular

Answer

a) The completed table should look as follows:

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 carbon dioxide silicon (IV) oxide

formula CO2; [1 mark] SiO2

melting point / °C –56 1610

physical state at gas solid; [1 mark]

25 °C

conduction of non-conductor poor conductor / non-

electricity conductor; [1 mark]

structure simple molecular / simple macromolecular

(covalent); [1 mark]

[Total: 4 marks]

You can figure out the formula of carbon dioxide from its name
dioxide means there are two oxygens in each molecule
SiO2 has lots of very strong covalent bonds and no intermolecular forces so it
has similar properties to diamond
It has a very high boiling point and does not conduct electricity
Small molecules are compounds, such as carbon dioxide, made up of molecules
that contain just a few atoms covalently bonded together
They have low melting and boiling points so covalent compounds are
usually liquids or gases at room temperature
(4 marks)

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(b) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only
i) Name the type of bonds that exist between the atoms in silicon(IV) oxide.

[1]

ii) Explain why silicon(IV) oxide has a very high melting point.

[1]

iii) Explain, in terms of attractive forces between particles, why carbon dioxide has a very
low melting point.

[1]

iv) Explain, in terms of particles, why carbon dioxide is a non-conductor of electricity.

[1]

Answer

b)

i) The type of bonds that exist between the atoms in silicon(IV) oxide are

Covalent; [1 mark]
ii) Silicon(IV) oxide has a very high melting point because:

All the bonds are (very) strong bonds

OR
The bonds need a lot of energy or heat to break
OR
(There are) no weak bonds /no (weak) intermolecular forces; [1 mark]
iii) Carbon dioxide has a very low melting point because:

There are weak forces between molecules

OR
There are weak intermolecular forces or weak van der Waals’ forces;
OR
A low amount of energy is needed to break intermolecular/ van der Waals’ forces; [1
mark]

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iv) Carbon dioxide is a non-conductor of electricity because:

There are no (moving) ions / no mobile or moving electrons / all electrons used in
bonding/ made of uncharged molecules; [1 mark]
[Total: 4 marks]

Remember: Melting/boiling points are to do with breaking the intermolecular

forces between molecules
Carbon dioxide has weak intermolecular forces between its molecules
Silicon (IV) oxide does not have intermolecular forces
It is a giant structure with lots of strong covalent bonds
To conduct electricity a substance must have charged particles (such as
electrons or ions) which are able to move and carry a charge
Carbon dioxide has covalent bonds and does not contain free electrons or
ions which can move
(4 marks)

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(c) Separate: Chemistry Only
i) Name the type of chemical reaction in which carbon dioxide is produced from fossil
fuels.

[1]

ii) Name the chemical process in which green plants convert carbon dioxide into
carbohydrates.

[1]

Answer

c)

i) The type of chemical reaction in which carbon dioxide is produced from fossil fuels is:

Combustion / burning; [1 mark]

ii) The chemical process in which green plants convert carbon dioxide into carbohydrates
is:

Photosynthesis; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

You should know the names of these processes from Biology as well as
Chemistry
(2 marks)

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4 (a) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only
The table below shows the elements in the third period of the Periodic Table, the
number of electrons in their outer energy level, their oxidation state in their common
compounds and their melting points.

Element Na Mg Al Si P S Cl Ar

Number of outer electrons 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Oxidation state +1 +2 +3 +4/-4 -3 -2 -1 0

Melting point / oC 98 650 660 1414 317 115 -101 -189

Describe and explain the variation in oxidation state across the period.

Answer

a) The variation in oxidation state across the period is:

The number of e– gained or lost / the charge on the ion = numerical value of
oxidation state; [1 mark]
The explanation is any two from:

Na to Al (Si) lose e– / form positive ions; [1 mark]

(Si) P to Cl gain e– / form negative ions; [1 mark]
Si gains and loses e– / Si can form a positive or negative ion
OR
Ar neither gains nor loses e– / Ar does not form ions; [1 mark]

[Total: 3 marks]

As the oxidation number of a monatomic ion is the same as the charge on the
ion, the variation in oxidation number can be explained by the differences in the
charges on the ions or whether they lose or gain electrons

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 The variation in oxidation number that you should identify and explain is why
some elements have:
a positive oxidation number, or
a negative oxidation number, or
either a positive or negative oxidation number, or
an oxidation number of zero
(3 marks)

(b) Extended Only

The first three elements, Na, Mg and Al, are metals.

Describe the structure of a typical metal.

Answer

b) The structure of a typical metal can be described as:

Positive ions / cations / metallic ions; [1 mark]

Arranged in a lattice / rows / layers; [1 mark]
Sea of electrons / delocalised electrons; [1 mark]
[Total: 3 marks]

Metal atoms lose their outer electrons to form positive ions

The electrons no longer belong to a particular atom and are said to be

delocalised

The electrons are free to move around the structure

Metallic bonds are formed due to the electrostatic attraction between the
positive metal ions and the negative delocalised electrons

Metallic bonds are strong and can explain many properties of metals

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 (3 marks)

(c) Extended Only

Explain why Na, Mg and Al are good conductors of electricity.

Answer

c) Na, Mg and Al are good conductors of electricity because:

They have mobile electrons; [1 mark]

[Total: 1 mark]

As the delocalised electrons are free to move through the structure, they can
carry charge
Electricity is caused by a flow of charge, hence metals can conduct electricity
(1 mark)

(d) Which element exists as diatomic molecules of the type X2?

Answer

d) The element that exists as diatomic molecules of the type X2 is:

Chlorine; [1 mark]
[Total: 1 mark]

Chlorine (and all other halogens) form molecules of two atoms, i.e. they are
diatomic molecules
This is because a chlorine atom has 7 electrons in its outer shell so it will
combine with another chlorine atom to share a pair of electrons
This results in both chlorine atoms obtaining a full outer shell

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 (1 mark)

(e) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only

Silicon has a similar structure to diamond.

Explain why silicon has the highest melting point in the period.

Answer

e) Silicon has the highest melting point in the period because:

(It has) strong covalent bonds; [1 mark]

In a giant lattice / macromolecule / giant (structure); [1 mark]

[Total: 2 marks]

SiO2 has lots of very strong covalent bonds and extend in a giant lattice and no
intermolecular forces so it has similar properties to diamond
The many covalent bonds require a very large amount of heat energy to break
the lattice thus it has a very high melting point
(2 marks)

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(f) Extended Only
Sodium chloride is a crystalline solid with a high melting point. It dissolves in water to
give a neutral solution. Phosphorus trichloride is a liquid at room temperature. It reacts
with water to form an acidic solution. Suggest an explanation for these differences in
properties.

Answer

f) Explanations for these differences in properties are:

Any two from:

Sodium chloride is ionic and PCl3 is covalent; [1 mark]

Ionic bonds are strong and intermolecular forces are weak; [1 mark]
PCl3 reacts with water and NaCl does not; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

The 'suggest' command word used in this question indicates that you will have
to apply your knowledge
Whenever explaining properties, identify the type of structure / bonding within
the structure
Sodium chloride is a giant ionic lattice as it contains a metal and a non-
metal
PCl3 is a simple covalent molecule as it contains non-metals
The differences in state at room temperature arise from the differences in
melting point
They can be explained by the strength of the attraction between ions /
molecules
The stronger the attraction, the higher the melting point
NaCl contains strong ionic bonds therefore will have a high melting point,
and it is a solid at room temperature

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 PCl3 has weak intermolecular forces so will have a much lower melting
point, resulting in it being a liquid at room temperature
Ionic compounds tend to be soluble, i.e. they dissolve as opposed to react with
water and you are given the information that PCl3 forms an acidic solution with
water thus indicating a reaction
(2 marks)

(g) Describe how you could show that magnesium oxide is a basic oxide and not an
amphoteric oxide.

Answer

g) You could show that magnesium oxide is a basic oxide and not an amphoteric oxide
as:

MgO will react with / dissolve in / neutralise hydrochloric acid / acid / acid oxide; [1
mark]
If amphoteric, MgO will react with / dissolve in / neutralise hydrochloric acid / acid /
acid oxide
AND
MgO will react with dissolve in / neutralise sodium hydroxide / alkali / base / basic
oxide; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

A basic oxide will react with an acid (i.e. behaves as a base)

An amphoteric oxide can react with an acid and a base (i.e. can behave as an
acid or a base)

So a basic oxide will not react with a base, whereas an amphoteric oxide will
MgO will not react with sodium hydroxide / alkali / base / basic oxide would
achieve both marks

(2 marks)

(h) Extended Only

Draw a dot-and-cross diagram showing the bonding in magnesium oxide. Show outer
electrons only.

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Answer

h) A dot-and-cross diagram showing the bonding in magnesium oxide can be drawn as:

Magnesium with 8 or 0 outer shell electrons; [1 mark]

Oxygen with 8 outer shell electrons
AND
2 electrons are indicated differently from the other 6 / matching the Mg electrons if
these have been shown; [1 mark]
Correct charges; [1 mark]
[Total: 3 marks]

The inner electrons are not required for this answer

However, if they are included they must be correct
Magnesium is in Group II so will have 2 outer electrons which it will lose forming
a 2+ ion
Oxygen is in Group VI so has 6 outer electrons
It will gain 2 electrons from magnesium to form an oxide ion with a 2-
charge
This can be shown on a dot-and-cross diagram by the oxide ion having 6
electrons indicated by a cross and 2 electrons by a dot (or vice versa)
The magnesium ion can be shown as either having an empty outer shell with no
electrons in or as full with 8 electrons in

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When drawing the dot-and-cross diagrams of ionic compounds, don't forget to
include square brackets around each ion and the charge of each ion
(3 marks)

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5 (a) The table shows the melting points, boiling points and electrical properties of five
substances, A to E.

Substance Melting Boiling Electrical Electrical

point / oC point / oC conductivity of solid conductivity of liquid

A -7 59 poor poor

B 1083 2567 good good

C 755 1387 poor good

D 43 181 poor poor

E 1607 2227 poor poor

Choose a substance from the table above to match each of the following descriptions. A
substance may be used once, more than once or not at all.

Justify each choice with evidence from the table.

One has been completed as an example.

This substance is covalent and is a solid at room temperature (25 °C): D

Evidence: Its melting point is above room temperature. It has a low melting point and it
does not conduct as a liquid, so it is covalent.

This substance has a giant covalent structure:

Evidence:

Answer

a) This substance has a giant covalent structure:

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 E; [1 mark]
Evidence: high melting point / mp / mpt
OR
High boiling point / bp / bpt; [1 mark]
Poor / non conductor (when liquid and/or solid); [1 mark]
[Total: 3 marks]

Giant covalent structures have many covalent bonds which require large
amounts of energy to break
This means they have high melting points
They do not contain ions or have any free electrons (with the exception of
graphite) so cannot conduct electricity as either a solid or liquid
(3 marks)

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(b) Extended Only
This substance is a metal:

Evidence:

Answer

b) This substance is a metal:

B; [1 mark]
Evidence: (good) conductor when solid (and liquid) / in any state; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

Metals contain free electrons which can carry charge so they conduct electricity
as either a solid or liquid
Just stating that the substance has a high melting and boiling point is
insufficient as this on its own cannot identify it as a metal
Substances C and E also have high melting and boiling points but it is the
conductivity of electricity which identifies B as a metal
(2 marks)

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(c) This substance is a liquid at room temperature.

Answer

c) This substance is a liquid at room temperature:

A; [1 mark]
Option 1:

Evidence: melting point / –7 (°C) is below room temperature / 25 (°C) / r.t.p.

OR
Room temperature / 25 (°C) / r.t.p. is above melting point / –7 (°C); [1 mark]
Boiling point / 59 (°C) is above room temperature / 25 (°C) / r.t.p.
OR
Room temperature / 25 (°C) / r.t.p. is below boiling point / 59 (°C); [1 mark]
Option 2:

25 (°C) / room temperature / r.t.p. is in between –7 (°C) and 59 (°C)

OR
25 (°C) / room temperature / r.t.p. is between the melting point and boiling point; [2
marks]
[Total: 3 marks]

Substances will be a liquid between their melting point and boiling point
Below their melting point, they will be a solid
Above their boiling point, they will be a gas
(3 marks)

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(d) This substance is an ionic solid.

Answer

d) This substance is an ionic solid:

C; [1 mark]
Evidence: high melting point/ mp/ mpt
OR
High boiling point/ bp/ bpt; [1 mark]
Poor / non conductor when solid
AND
good conductor when liquid / molten
OR
Only conduct when liquid; [1 mark

[Total: 3 marks]

Ionic substances have a high melting point due to the many strong ionic bonds
resulting from the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions

They are able to conduct electricity when molten as the ions are free to move
When solid, the ions are in a fixed position in a lattice so cannot move and are
unable to conduct electricity
Careful: Ionic compounds do not conduct electricity due to free electrons - this
is the explanation of why metals conduct electricity!
(3 marks)

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6 (a) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only
Carbon and silicon are elements in Group IV. They both form oxides of the type XO2

Silicon(IV) oxide, SiO2, has a macromolecular structure.

i) Describe the structure of silicon(IV) oxide

[3]

ii) State three properties which silicon(IV) oxide and diamond have in common.

[3]

iii) How could you show that silicon(IV) oxide is acidic and not basic or amphoteric?

[2]

Answer

a)

i) The structure of silicon(IV) oxide is:

Any three from:

Each oxygen is joined to two silicons/atoms; [1 mark]

Each silicon is joined to four oxygens /atoms; [1 mark]
Tetrahedral (around silicon)/ similar to diamond; [1 mark]
Linear around oxygen; [1 mark]
ii) Three properties that silicon(IV) oxide and diamond have in common are:

Any three from:

High melting point/ boiling point; [1 mark]

Hard; [1 mark]
Strong; [1 mark]

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 (Colourless) crystalline (solid); [1 mark]
Brittle / not malleable; [1 mark]
Poor / non-conductor (of electricity) OR Insulator; [1 mark]
Insoluble (in water); [1 mark]
iii) You could show that silicon(IV) oxide is acidic and not basic or amphoteric by:

SiO2 does not react with / dissolves in / neutralises an acid or acidic oxide; [1 mark]
SiO2 does react / dissolve in / neutralise an alkali or base or basic oxide; [1 mark]

[Total: 8 marks]
(8 marks)

(b) Explain why the physical properties of carbon dioxide are different from those of
diamond and silicon(IV) oxide.

Answer

b) The physical properties of carbon dioxide are different from those of diamond and
silicon(IV) oxide as:

Carbon dioxide has a simple molecular structure; [1 mark]

[Total: 1 mark]

Both diamond and silicon (IV) oxide have giant structures with lots of strong
covalent bonds
Carbon dioxide has a simple molecular structure with covalent bonds within
molecules and weak intermolecular forces between the molecules
(1 mark)

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7 (a) Germanium is an element in Group IV. The electron distribution of a germanium atom is
2 + 8 + 18 + 4. It has oxidation states of +2 and +4.

Germanium forms a series of saturated hydrides similar to the alkanes.

i) Draw the structural formula of the hydride which contains three germanium atoms per
molecule.

[1]

ii) Predict the general formula of the germanium hydrides.

[1]

Answer

a)

i) The structural formula of the hydride which contains three germanium atoms per
molecule is:

GeH3GeH2GeH3; [1 mark]
ii) The general formula of the germanium hydrides is:

GenH2n+1; [1 mark]
[Total:2 marks]

You cannot give answers that use C instead of Ge

This will cost you at least one mark
The structural formula and general formula are exactly the same as they would
be for alkanes, the only difference is that the carbon atoms are replaced by
germanium atoms
(2 marks)

(b) Draw a diagram showing the arrangement of the valency electrons in one molecule of
the covalent compound germanium(IV) chloride, GeCl4. Use o to represent an electron
from a chlorine atom. Use x to represent an electron from a germanium atom.

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Answer

b) A diagram showing the arrangement of the valency electrons in one molecule of the
covalent compound germanium(IV) chloride, GeCl4 is:

4 bonded pairs of electrons around the germanium atom; [1 mark]

3 non-bonded pairs of electrons

AND
1 bonded pair of electrons around each chlorine atom; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

Whilst this is an unfamiliar compound, the principles behind drawing the dot-
and-cross diagram are the same as more straightforward molecules
Germanium is in Group IV so will have 4 electrons in its outer shell i.e. 4 valency
electrons
Germanium will share a pair of electrons with 4 chlorine atoms

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 Chlorine is in Group VII so will have 7 electrons in its outer shell, i.e. 7 valency
electrons
Each chlorine atom will share a pair of electrons with the germanium atom
When you have drawn your dot-and-cross diagram check that each electron
shell has 8 electrons in
(2 marks)

(c) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only

Describe the structure of the giant covalent compound germanium(IV) oxide, GeO2. It
has a similar structure to that of silicon(IV) oxide.

Answer

c) The structure of the giant covalent compound germanium(IV) oxide, GeO2 is:

Four oxygen atoms around each germanium atom; [1 mark]

Two germanium atoms around each oxygen atom; [1 mark]
Tetrahedral; [1 mark]
[Total: 3 marks]

This is another question which requires you to apply your knowledge

You should recall that in silicon(IV) oxide, each oxygen atom forms covalent
bonds with 2 silicon atoms and each silicon atom, in turn, forms covalent bonds
with 4 oxygen atoms
This forms a tetrahedron with one silicon atom and four oxygen atoms, similar
to diamond
Germanium(IV) oxide has a similar structure but the silicon atoms are replaced
by germanium atoms
(3 marks)

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(d) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only
Is the change GeCl2 to GeCl4 reduction, oxidation or neither? Give a reason for your
choice.

Answer

d) The change GeCl2 to GeCl4 is:

Oxidation; [1 mark]
Because there is an increase in oxidation number
OR
Because there is electron loss; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

The second mark is only awarded if the first mark has been achieved
The oxidation number of a compound is zero
The oxidation of a chlorine is -1
In GeCl2, the oxidation number of germanium must be +2
Oxidation number of germanium + 2 x oxidation number of chlorine = 0
+2 + (2 x -1) = 0
In GeCl4, the oxidation number of germanium must be +4

Oxidation number of germanium + 4 x oxidation number of chlorine = 0

+4 + (4 x -1) = 0
Therefore oxidation has occurred as the oxidation number of germanium has
increased from +2 to +4
(2 marks)

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8 (a) The first three elements in Group IV are carbon, silicon and germanium. The elements
and their compounds have similar properties.

The compound, silicon carbide, has a macromolecular structure similar to that of

diamond.

i) A major use of silicon carbide is to reinforce aluminium alloys which are used in the
construction of spacecraft. Suggest three of its physical properties.

[3]

ii) Complete the following description of the structure of silicon carbide. Each carbon
atom is bonded to four ................................. atoms. Each silicon atom is bonded to
................................. carbon atoms.

[2]

Answer

a)

i) Three properties of silicon carbide are:

Any three from:

Strong; [1 mark]
Hard; [1 mark]
Light or low density; [1 mark]
High melting point; [1 mark]

ii) The description of the structure of silicon carbide is:

Each carbon atom is bonded to four silicon atoms; [1 mark]

Each silicon atom is bonded to four carbon atoms; [1 mark]
[Total: 5 marks]

For part (i), think about the properties of aluminium which would make it
suitable to construct spacecraft with

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 You can say that it has a high strength to weight ratio for 2 marks as this
includes points 1 and 3
The properties of silicon carbide would need to share these properties,
otherwise it would not be suitable for its use
The structure of silicon carbide is similar to diamond in which every carbon
atom is bonded to 4 other carbon atoms

In silicon carbide, it will have a similar structure but as both silicon and
carbon are present, each will be bonded to four atoms of the other element
(5 marks)

(b) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only

Germanium(IV) oxide, GeO2, has the same macromolecular structure as silicon(IV) oxide.
Draw the structural formula of germanium(IV) oxide.

Answer

b) The diagram of the structural formula of germanium(IV) oxide should include:

Each germanium atom bonded 4 oxygen atoms; [1 mark]

Each oxygen atom bonded to 2 germanium atoms; [1 mark]
Looks / stated to be tetrahedral; [1 mark]
[Total: 3 marks]

The word “tetrahedral” scores the third mark even if te diagram does not look
tetrahedral
You should know that in silicon(IV) oxide, each oxygen atom forms covalent
bonds with 2 silicon atoms and each silicon atom in turn forms covalent bonds
with 4 oxygen atoms
The same is true for germanium(IV) oxide so you just need to replace Si with Ge

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atoms

(3 marks)

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(c) Germanium forms a series of hydrides comparable to the alkanes.

i) Draw the structural formula of the hydride which contains four germanium atoms per
molecule.

[1]

ii) Predict the products of the complete combustion of this hydride.

[2]

Answer

c)

i) The structural formula of the hydride which contains four germanium atoms per
molecule is:

GeH3GeH2GeH2GeH3 / GeH3-GeH2-GeH2-GeH3; [1 mark]

ii) The products of the complete combustion of this hydride are:

Germanium(IV) oxide
OR
Germanium dioxide
OR
Germanium oxide; [1 mark]
Water; [1 mark]
[Total: 3 marks]

You are told in the question that the germanium hydrides are similar to alkanes
so the structural formula of the hydride that contains 4 Ge atoms will be similar
to that of butane (the alkane containing 4 carbon atoms) but with the C atoms
replaced with Ge
The structural formula of butane is CH3CH2CH2CH3
Replacing the C atoms with Ge gives GeH3GeH2GeH2GeH3
The products of the complete combustion of alkanes are carbon dioxide and
water, so the product of the complete combustion of this germanium hydride

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will be similar, but with the C atom replaced with a Ge atom
Instead of carbon dioxide + water, germanium(IV) oxide (GeO2) + water
(3 marks)

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9 (a) The properties of five alkenes at room temperature are shown in Table 1.1

Table 1.1

alkene number of carbon state at room density in g boiling

atoms in a molecule temperature / cm3 point / °C

ethene 2 gas 0.0012 –104

propene 3 gas 0.0018 –47

butene 4 gas 0.0024

pentene 5 liquid 0.64 30

hexene 6 liquid 0.67 63

Answer this question using only the information in the table.

Suggest why the densities of the first three alkenes are much lower than the density of
pentene and hexene.

Answer

a) The densities of the first three alkenes are much lower than the density of pentene
and hexene because:

They are gases (at room temperature and pressure); [1 mark]

[Total: 1 mark]

You can see from the data given in the table that the boiling point of the alkenes
is increasing as the number of carbon atoms increases
The boiling point of the ethene and propene are below room temperature,
therefore they are gases at room temperature

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 (1 mark)

(b) The diagrams show part of the structures of five substances, A, B, C, D and E.

Answer the following question about these structures.

Which one of these structures, A, B, C, D or E, is used in cutting tools?

Answer

b) The structure used in cutting tools is:

B / Diamond; [1 mark]
[Total: 1 mark]

Diamond is very strong as it has many covalent bonds throughout its structure
Each carbon atom in diamond is bonded to 4 other carbon atoms
None of the following structures are strong enough to be used as cutting tools
A is helium gas (simple molecular)

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 C is lithium chloride (ionic lattice)
D is nitrogen gas (simple molecular)
E is copper (metal)
(1 mark)

(c) Part of the structure of graphite is shown.

Use the information from the diagram to explain why graphite is used as a lubricant.

Answer

c) Graphite is used as a lubricant because:

Layers can slide (over each other); [1 mark]

[Total: 1 mark]

Graphite is an allotrope of carbon, each carbon atom is bonded to three other

carbon atoms by covalent bonds

The covalent bonds within the layers are very strong, but the layers are attracted
to each other by weak intermolecular forces

(1 mark)

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10 (a) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only
The names of eight substances are given.

aluminium oxide calcium oxide ethanol nitrogen

iron(III) oxide methane oxygen silicon(IV) oxide

State which substance is a macromolecular solid.

Answer

a) The substance that is a macromolecular solid is:

Silicon(IV) oxide; [1 mark]

[Total: 1 mark]

Silicon(IV) oxide (also known as silicon dioxide or silica), SiO2, is a

macromolecule and has similar properties to diamond
The other substances are:

Aluminium oxide - ionic lattice

Calcium oxide - ionic lattice
Ethanol - simple molecule
Nitrogen - simple molecule
Iron(III) oxide - ionic lattice
Methane - simple molecule
Oxygen - simple molecule
(1 mark)

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(b) Carbon is an element which exists in different forms. Name two forms of the element
carbon that have giant covalent structures.

Answer

b) Two forms of the element carbon that have giant covalent structures are:

Any two of the following

Diamond; [1 mark]
Graphite; [1 mark]
Graphene; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

These forms of carbon are called allotropes and you should be able to identify
the structures of diamond and graphite
Graphene is a single layer of graphite, which you are not required to know but it
is a creditworthy response
(2 marks)

(c) Extended Only

Magnesium is a metal. Describe the structure and bonding of metals. Include a labelled
diagram in your answer.

Answer

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c) The structure and bonding in metals is:

(Lattice of) positive ions / cations; [1 mark]

(Delocalised / sea of) electrons; [1 mark]
Attraction / attract between positive and negative; [1 mark]
[Total: 3 marks]

The question asks for a labelled diagram so include clear labels and contain
metal ions that have a positive charge
Metallic bonds are strong and are a result of the attraction between the positive
metal ions and the negatively charged delocalised electrons
(3 marks)

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Hard Questions
1 (a) In 1985 the fullerenes were discovered. They are solid forms of the element carbon. The
structure of the C60 fullerene is given below.

i) In the C60 fullerene, how many other carbon atoms is each carbon atom bonded to?

[1]

ii) Another fullerene has a relative molecular mass of 840. How many carbon atoms are
there in one molecule of this fullerene?

[1]

Answer

a)

i) In C60 fullerene, each carbon is bonded to:

3 (other carbons); [1 mark]

ii) In one molecule of fullerene there are:

70 (carbon atoms); [1 mark]

[Total: 2 marks]

Looking at the diagram you can see that each carbon (circled) has 3 bonds

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Although you aren't expected to be familiar with the structure of fullerene you
should be used to seeing similar diagrams for the structure of diamond and
graphite
To figure out how many carbon atoms there are for part ii)
carbon has an atomic mass of 12
Therefore 840 / 12 = 70
(2 marks)

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(b) Fullerenes are soluble in liquid hydrocarbons such as octane. The other solid forms of
carbon are insoluble.

Describe how you could obtain crystals of fullerenes from soot which is a mixture of
fullerenes and other solid forms of carbon.

Answer

b) You could obtain crystals of fullerenes from soot as follows:

Add octane (or another liquid hydrocarbon) (to soot); [1 mark]

Filter (to remove insoluble forms of carbon); [1 mark]
(Then allow to) evaporate
OR
Heat / warm
OR
Leave in the sun (to get crystals of fullerene); [1 mark]
[Total: 3 marks]

You can use your knowledge of preparing salts to help you answer this one
You are told fullerene is soluble in liquid hydrocarbon
This is similar to the first step of preparing a soluble salt - adding water
However, you need to add liquid hydrocarbon instead of water to dissolve
the fullerene
The following steps are exactly the same as preparing other soluble salts
(3 marks)

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(c) Extended Only
A mixture of a fullerene and potassium is an excellent conductor of electricity.

i) Which other form of solid carbon is a good conductor of electricity?

[1]

ii) Explain why metals, such as potassium, are good conductors of electricity.

[2]

iii) The mixture of fullerene and potassium has to be stored out of contact with air. There
are substances in unpolluted air which will react with potassium. Name two potassium
compounds which could be formed when potassium is exposed to air.

[2]

Answer

c)

i) Another form of solid carbon which is a good conductor of electricity would be:

Graphite; [1 mark]

ii) Metals, such as potassium, are good conductors of electricity because:

(They have) delocalised electrons/ free electrons/ sea of electrons; [1 mark]

(The electrons are able to) move/ are mobile; [1 mark]
iii) Two potassium compounds which could be formed when potassium is exposed to air
are:

Any two from:

Potassium oxide; [1 mark]

Potassium hydroxide; [1 mark]
Potassium carbonate; [1 mark]

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 Potassium hydrogencarbonate (bicarbonate); [1 mark]
[Total: 5 marks]

Part iii) says air rather than oxygen

Air contains oxygen, water vapour and carbon dioxide
Hence, potassium could react with any one of these components producing
the products shown
(5 marks)

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2 (a) Extended Only
It was reported from America that a turbine engine, the size of a button, might replace
batteries. The engine would be built from silicon which has suitable properties for this
purpose.

The engine will run on a small pack of jet fuel. What other chemical is needed to burn
this fuel?

Answer

a) The other chemical that is needed to burn this fuel is:

Oxygen; [1 mark]
[Total: 1 mark]

With any combustion reaction, oxygen is required

Careful: Whilst oxygen is present in the air, you won't be awarded a mark for
saying the air as this is a mixture of compounds and elements
(1 mark)

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(b) Extended Only
Silicon has the same type of macromolecular structure as diamond.

i) Explain why one atom of either element can form four covalent bonds.

[2]

ii) Predict two physical properties of silicon.

[2]

iii) Name a different element that has a similar structure and properties to silicon.

[1]

Answer

b)

i) One atom of either element can form four covalent bonds because:

Both have four outer / valency electrons; [1 mark]

They need to share four more
OR
They need four more to complete energy level; [1 mark]
ii) Two physical properties of silicon are:

Any two from:

Hard; [1 mark]
Brittle; [1 mark]
High melting / boiling point; [1 mark]
Poor conductor of electricity
OR
semi-conductor; [1 mark]
iii) A different element that has a similar structure and properties to silicon is:

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 Germanium
OR
Carbon; [1 mark]
[Total: 5 marks]

Elements in the same group will share similar properties and form similar
structures
(5 marks)

(c) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only

Silicon is made by the carbon reduction of the macromolecular compound, silicon(IV)
oxide.

i) Balance the equation for the reduction of silicon(IV) oxide.

SiO2 + .......... C + → Si + ..........CO

[1]

ii) Explain why the silicon(IV) oxide is said to be reduced.

[1]

iii) Describe the structure of silicon(IV) oxide. You may use a diagram.

[3]

Answer

c)

i) The balanced equation is:

SiO2 + 2C + → Si + 2CO

Correctly balanced; [1 mark]

ii) The silicon(IV) oxide is said to be reduced because:

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 (It has) lost oxygen
OR
decrease in oxidation number; [1 mark]
iii) The structure of silicon(IV) oxide can be described by:

4 oxygen atoms around 1 silicon atom; [1 mark]

2 silicon atoms around 1 oxygen; [1 mark]
Tetrahedral
OR
Diagram that looks tetrahedral; [1 mark]
[Total: 5 marks]

There are often extra marking points associated with questions like this
For instance, you can only score a maximum of 2 marks if there is some
incorrect Chemistry in your answer
Reduction is the loss of oxygen, which silicon(IV) oxide does in this reaction to
form a silicon atom
Reduction can also be described as the gain of electrons
A suitable diagram would be:

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 (5 marks)

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3 (a) There are three types of giant structure – ionic, metallic and macromolecular.

Sodium nitride is an ionic compound. Draw a diagram that shows the formula of the
compound, the charges on the ions and the arrangement of the valency electrons
around the negative ion.

Use x to represent an electron from a sodium atom. Use o to represent an electron from
a nitrogen atom.

Answer

a) A diagram for sodium nitride is:

Correct ratio, 3Na : 1N; [1 mark]

Correct charges; [1 mark]

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 8 electrons around N; [1 mark]
If no symbols then must have correct key
If covalent only mark 1
Ignore electrons around sodium
If the response includes both a correct and an incorrect answer
Do not select correct one, mark = [0]

[Total: 3 marks]

Sodium is in Group I of the periodic table so will lose one electron to form ions
with a 1+ charge
Nitrogen is in Group V of the periodic table so will gain three electrons to form
ions with a 3- charge
Three sodium ions are needed to balance the 3- charge on the nitrogen ion
resulting in the formula NaN3
Make sure you read the question carefully so you know exactly what you are
required to show, for example, in this question you only need to show the outer
shell electrons on the nitride ion and not the sodium ions
(3 marks)

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(b) i) Describe metallic bonding.

[3]

ii) Use the above ideas to explain why: metals are good conductors of electricity, metals
are malleable.

[3]

Answer

b)

i) Metallic bonding is:

Positive ions; [1 mark]

Do not accept atoms or particles

Arranged in layers / lattice / a regular pattern; [1 mark]

With delocalised / free / mobile electrons; [1 mark]

ii) Metals are good conductors of electricity because:

Delocalised / free electrons can move and carry a charge; [1 mark]

Metals are malleable because:

Layers / ions / atoms / particles; [1 mark] NB be more flexible than 2(b)(i)

Can slip or move past each other or bonding non-directional; [1 mark]
[Total: 6 marks]

Make sure you look at the number of marks for these questions- describing the
structure of a metal is almost always three marks so it is good to learn this
description word for word
(6 marks)

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(c) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only
Silicon(IV) oxide has a macromolecular structure.

i) Describe the structure of silicon(IV) oxide (a diagram is not acceptable).

[3]

ii) Diamond has a similar structure and consequently similar properties. Give two
physical properties common to both diamond and silicon(IV) oxide.

[2]

Answer

c)

i) Silicon dioxide:

Tetrahedral; [1 mark]
1 Si : 4 O bonded; [1 mark]

1 O : 2 Si; [1 mark]
NOT molecules of oxygen, etc.
NOT intermolecular forces
ONLY tetrahedral can score for either of the above

ii) Two physical properties common to both diamond and silicon (IV) oxide are:

Any two from:

Hard; [1 mark]

High melting / boiling point; [1 mark]

Colourless / shiny / translucent ; [1 mark]
Poor conductor; [1 mark]
Brittle; [1 mark]
Insoluble; [1 mark]

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[Total: 5 marks]

In silicon dioxide, each oxygen atom forms covalent bonds with 2 silicon atoms
and each silicon atom in turn forms covalent bonds with 4 oxygen atoms
resulting in a tetrahedral structure
You must make sure you learn the properties of the three giant covalent
structures on the specification- silicon dioxide, diamond and graphite
(5 marks)

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4 (a) Carbon and silicon are elements in Group IV. Both elements have macromolecular
structures.

Diamond and graphite are two forms of the element carbon.

i) Explain why diamond is a very hard substance.

[2]

ii) Give one use of diamond.

[1]

iii) Explain why graphite is a soft material.

[2]

iv) Give one use of graphite.

[1]

Answer

a)

i) Diamond is hard because:

Macromolecular / giant covalent / giant atomic

OR
All atoms held in position / in tetrahedral structure / to four other carbon; [1 mark]
Atoms all / strong bonds; [1 mark]
ii) One use of diamond is:

Any one from:

Jewellery / drilling / cutting / engraving / cutting edges in scalpel; [1 mark]

iii) Graphite is soft because:

Layer structure / sheets; [1 mark] Molecules / ions in layers = [0]

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 Layers can slide (over each other); [1 mark]
iv) One use of graphite is:

Lubricant / pencils / electrodes; [1 mark] Mark the first use offered

[Total: 6 marks]

Comparing the properties of diamond and graphite is a common question

Remember: In diamond, each carbon is bonded to four other carbon atoms,

whereas in graphite, each carbon is bonded to only three, resulting in this
difference in properties
(6 marks)

(b) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only

Two of the oxides of these elements are carbon dioxide, CO2, and silicon(IV) oxide, SiO2.

i) Draw a diagram showing the arrangement of the valency electrons in one molecule of
the covalent compound carbon dioxide.

Use o to represent an electron from a carbon atom. Use x to represent an electron from
an oxygen atom.

[3]

ii) A section of the macromolecular structure of silicon(IV) oxide is given below.

[2]

Use this diagram to explain why the formula is SiO2 not SiO4.

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iii) Predict two differences in the physical properties of these two oxides.

[2]

Answer

b)

i) A diagram showing the arrangement of the valency electrons in one molecule of the
covalent compound carbon dioxide is:

4e- between carbon and oxygens; [1 mark]

2 non-bonding pairs on both oxygens; [1 mark]

Correct formula (award only if marks 1 and 2 achieved); [1 mark]
ii) The formula is SiO2 not SiO4 because:

4 O around each Si; [1 mark]

2 Si around each O; [1 mark] Must refer to diagram not valencies or electron
distributions

iii) Two differences in the physical properties of these two oxides are:

Any two from:

SiO2 has higher melting point or boiling point; [1 mark]

SiO2 is a solid, CO2 is a gas (at r.t.p.); [1 mark]

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 (When both are solids) then SiO2 is harder; [1 mark]
SiO2 has higher density; [1 mark]
SiO2 insoluble, CO2 soluble; [1 mark]
[Total: 7 marks]

Carbon is in group 4 so has 4 electrons in its outer shell

Oxygen is in group 6 so has 6 electrons in its outer shell

For both atoms to obtain full outer shells, the carbon will share all of its
electrons with oxygen each oxygen atom will share one pair of electrons with
carbon
There will be three non- bonded pairs of electrons on each oxygen as well

Silicon (IV) oxide has the formula SiO2 because each oxygen atom forms
covalent bonds with two silicon atoms

(7 marks)

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5 (a) The first three elements in Group IV are

Carbon

Silicon

Germanium

The element germanium has a diamond-type structure. Describe the structure of

germanium. A diagram is acceptable.

Answer

a) The structure of germanium is:

4 Ge atoms around 1 Ge; [1 mark]

Tetrahedral; [1 mark]
[Total: 2 marks]

The question states that the structure of germanium is very similar to that of
diamond
Carbon atoms which make up diamond are changed for germanium in the
diagram
The tetrahedral structure means that each Ge atom is bonded to four other Ge
atoms
(2 marks)

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(b) Unlike diamond, graphite is soft and is a good conductor of electricity.

i) Explain why graphite has these properties.

[3]

ii) Give a use of graphite that depends on one of these properties.

Property .................................

Use .................................

[1]

Answer

b)

i) Graphite is soft and is a good conductor of electricity because:

It / graphite has layers; [1 mark]

That can move / slip
OR
There are weak bonds between layers; [1 mark]
It /graphite has delocalised / free / mobile electrons; [1 mark]
ii) A property and use of graphite is:

Any one property and use from the following:

Soft
AND
Lubricant OR pencils; [1 mark]
Good conductor
AND
Electrodes OR in electric motors; [1 mark]
[Total: 4 marks]

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In graphite, the covalent bonds within the layers are very strong, but the layers
are attracted to each other by weak intermolecular forces
Imagine graphite like a stack of plain A4 paper
You can easily slide the individual pieces of paper over one another, but it
is more difficult to actually pull (not tear) the pieces of paper apart
(4 marks)

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(c) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only
Carbon dioxide and silicon(IV) oxide have similar formulae but different types of
structure.

i) Give the formulae of these oxides.

[1]

ii) How are their structures different?

[2]

Answer

c)

i) The formula for both oxides is:

CO2
AND
SiO2 / XO2 ; [1 mark]
ii) The structures are different:

CO2 molecular or simple molecules or simple covalent; [1 mark]

SiO2 macromolecular or giant covalent; [1 mark]
[Total: 3 marks]

In silicon dioxide each oxygen atom forms covalent bonds with 2 silicon atoms
and each silicon atom in turn forms covalent bonds with 4 oxygen atoms

The formula of carbon dioxide should be pretty familiar to you

(3 marks)

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6 (a) Extended Only
Lead is an excellent roofing material. It is malleable and resistant to corrosion. Lead
rapidly becomes coated with basic lead carbonate which protects it from further
corrosion.

Lead has a typical metallic structure which is a lattice of lead ions surrounded by a ‘sea’
of mobile electrons. This structure is held together by attractive forces called a metallic
bond.

i) Explain why there are attractive forces in a metallic structure.

[2]

ii) Explain why a metal, such as lead, is malleable.

[2]

Answer

a)

i) There are attractive forces in a metallic structure because:

(There are attractive forces between) positive ions; [1 mark]

And (negative) electrons; [1 mark]
Opposite charges attract ONLY, award [1 mark] Electrostatic attraction ONLY, award [1
mark]

ii) A metal, such as lead, is malleable because:

The lattice / rows / layers of lead ions / cations / positive ions; [1 mark]
Do NOT allow: atoms / protons / nuclei

Can slide past each other / the bonds are non-directional; [1 mark]
[Total: 4 marks]

Be careful with terminology when describing the metallic structure and be

specific about what particles have the opposite charges responsible for the
attractive forces

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 (4 marks)

(b) Basic lead(II) carbonate is heated in the apparatus shown below. Water and carbon
dioxide are produced.

Silica gel absorbs water. Silica gel often contains anhydrous cobalt(II) chloride. When this
absorbs water it changes from blue to pink. Suggest a reason.

Answer

b) When silica gel absorbs water it changes from blue to pink because:

Anhydrous cobalt chloride becomes hydrated; [1 mark] ACCEPT: hydrous

[Total: 1 mark]

Cobalt(II) chloride turns blue to pink on the addition of water.

The equation is:
anhydrous cobalt(II) chloride + water hydrated cobalt(II) chloride

CoCl2 (s) + 6H2O (l) CoCl2.6H2O (s)

(1 mark)

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(c) Separate: Chemistry and Extended Only
Basic lead(II) carbonate has a formula of the type xPbCO3.yPb(OH)2 where x and y are
whole numbers. Determine x and y from the following information.

PbCO3 → PbO + CO2 Pb(OH)2 → PbO + H2O

When heated, the basic lead(II) carbonate gave 2.112 g of carbon dioxide and 0.432 g of
water. Mass of one mole of CO2 = 44 g Mass of one mole of H2O = 18 g Number of moles
of CO2 formed = .....................

[1]

Number of moles of H2O formed = .....................

[1]

x = ..................... and y = .....................

Formula of basic lead(II) carbonate is ........................................................................

[1]

Answer

c) The formula of basic lead(II) carbonate can be found by:

Number of moles of CO2 formed = mass/molar mass = 2.112/44 = 0.048 moles; [1

mark]
Number of moles of H2O formed = mass/molar mass = 0.432/18 = 0.024; [1 mark]
x = (0.048/0.024 =) 2 and y = (0.024/0.024 =) 1
AND
Formula of basic lead(II) carbonate is 2PbCO3.Pb(OH)2 / Pb(OH)2. 2PbCO3; [1 mark]
[Total: 3 marks]

Whilst the formula of the compound is complicated and unfamiliar, the principle
behind working out the formula is the same as for a more straightforward
empirical formula

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The number of moles of CO2 and H2O is the same as the number of moles of
PbCO3 and Pb(OH)2 respectively as shown in the equations given:
1 mole of CO2 is produced by 1 mole of PbCO3 and 1 mole of H2O is
produced by 1 mole of Pb(OH)2
You can then divide by the smallest number of moles to find the value of x and
y
(3 marks)

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7 (a) Extended Only
An ore of the important metal zinc is zinc blende, ZnS. This is changed into zinc oxide
which is reduced to the impure metal by carbon reduction.

i) How is zinc oxide obtained from zinc sulfide?

[2]

ii) Write a balanced equation for the reduction of zinc oxide by carbon.

[1]

iii) The major impurity in the zinc is cadmium. The boiling point of zinc is 907°C and that
of cadmium is 767 °C.

Name a technique which could be used to separate these two metals.

[2]

Answer

a)

i) How the zinc oxide is obtained from zinc sulfide:

Heat / roast / combustion / high temperature; [1 mark]

Accept burn

In air / oxygen; [1 mark]

ii) A balanced equation for the reduction of zinc oxide by carbon:

ZnO + C → Zn + CO

OR

2ZnO + C → 2Zn + CO2 ; [1 mark]

iii) A technique which could be used to separate these two metals:

Fractional distillation; [2 marks]

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[Total: 5 marks]

State symbols are not needed in part ii), but the equation must balance
Carbon monoxide cannot be shown as a reactant as the question clearly states
reduction by carbon
The clue about the separation is the boiling points given
It seems odd that you would separate two metals by fractional distillation, but a
mixture of any two substances can be achieved by fractional distillation if the
mixture can be melted vaporised; it might be an expensive process and energy
intensive
(5 marks)

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(b) In common with most metals, zinc is a good conductor of electricity. It is used as an
electrode in cells.

i) Give two other uses of zinc.

[2]

ii) Describe the metallic bonding in zinc and then explain why it is a good conductor of
electricity.

[4]

Answer

b)

i) Two other uses of zinc are:

Making alloys / brass / named alloy which contains zinc

OR
Galvanising / one specific use which depends on galvanising; [1 mark]
Zinc coated screws / roofing / buckets / sinks ; [1 mark] Not just plating other metals
ii) The metallic bonding in zinc and why it is a good conductor of electricity:

Metallic bonding consists of positive ions / cations; [1 mark]

Delocalised / free / mobile or sea of electrons; [1 mark]

The bond is an attraction between (positive) ions and delocalised electrons; [1
mark]

It is a good conductor because there are delocalised / free / mobile electrons; [1

mark]

[Total: 6 marks]

Make sure you use the correct vocabulary in part ii) 'nuclei' or 'atoms' would not
score you the mark in the description of the metallic bonding

Note: It must be clear that electrons are moving / carry charge / - the reason
why it is a good conductor

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 (6 marks)

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