IMPORTANT NOTICE

University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) in the UK and USA

With effect from the June 2003 examination University of Cambridge International Examinations
will only accept entries in the UK and USA from students registered on courses at CIE registered
Centres.

UK and USA private candidates will not be eligible to enter CIE examinations unless they are
repatriating from outside the UK/USA and are part way through a course leading to a CIE
examination. In that case a letter of support from the Principal of the school which they had
attended is required. Other UK and USA private candidates should not embark on courses leading
to a CIE examination after June 2003.

This regulation applies only to entry by private candidates in the UK and USA. Entry by private
candidates through Centres in other countries is not affected.

Further details are available from Customer Services at University of Cambridge International
Examinations.

You can find syllabuses and information about CIE teacher training events on the CIE
Website (www.cie.org.uk).
 2006

Information for Teachers

This booklet relates to examinations taken in the year printed on the cover. It is the normal
practice of CIE to print and distribute a new version of this booklet each year. Centres should
receive copies well in advance of them being required for teaching purposes.
Teachers who are about to teach syllabuses in this booklet for the first time should obtain and
study the relevant past examination papers and Subject Reports.
Any queries relating to this booklet should be addressed to CIE Customer Services.
Nomenclature

The proposals in ‘Signs, Symbols and Systematics (The Association for Science Education
Companion to 5-16 Science, 1995)’ will generally be adopted. Reference should be made to the
joint statement on chemical nomenclature issued by the GCE boards. In particular, the traditional
names sulphate, sulphite, nitrate, nitrite, sulphurous and nitrous acids will be used in question
papers.
It is intended that, in order to avoid difficulties arising out of the use of l as the symbol for litre, use
of dm3 in place of l or litre will be made.
In chemistry, full structural formulae (displayed formulae) in answers should show in detail both
the relative placing of atoms and the number of bonds between atoms. Hence – CONH2 and
– CO2H are not satisfactory as full structural formulae, although either of the usual symbols for the
benzene ring is acceptable.
Units, significant figures
Candidates should be aware that misuse of units and/or significant figures, i.e. failure to quote
units where necessary, the inclusion of units in quantities defined as ratios or quoting answers to
an inappropriate number of significant figures, is liable to be penalised.
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

GCE Ordinary Level/School Certificate

This syllabus is designed to place less emphasis on factual material and greater emphasis on
the understanding and application of scientific concepts and principles. This approach has been
adopted in recognition of the need for students to develop skills that will be of long-term value in
an increasingly technological world rather than focusing on large quantities of factual material
that may have only short-term relevance.

These are not listed in order of priority.

The aims are to

1. provide, through well designed studies of experimental and practical chemistry, a

worthwhile educational experience for all students, whether or not they go on to study
science beyond this level and, in particular, to enable them to acquire sufficient
understanding and knowledge to

1.1 become confident citizens in a technological world, able to take or develop an

informed interest in matters of scientific import;

1.2 recognise the usefulness, and limitations, of scientific method and to appreciate its
applicability in other disciplines and in everyday life;

1.3 be suitably prepared for studies beyond O/SC level in pure sciences, in applied
sciences or in science-dependent vocational courses.

2. develop abilities and skills that

2.1 are relevant to the study and practice of science;

2.2 are useful in everyday life;

2.3 encourage efficient and safe practice;

2.4 encourage effective communication.

3. develop attitudes relevant to science such as

3.1 concern for accuracy and precision;

3.2 objectivity;

3.3 integrity;

3.4 enquiry;

3.5 initiative;

3.6 inventiveness.

1
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

4. stimulate interest in and care for the local and global environment.

5. promote an awareness that

5.1 the study and practice of science are co-operative and cumulative activities, and are
subject to social, economic, technological, ethical and cultural influences and
limitations;

5.2 the applications of sciences may be both beneficial and detrimental to the individual,
the community and the environment.

A Knowledge with understanding

Students should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding in relation to:

1. scientific phenomena, facts, laws, definitions, concepts, theories;

2. scientific vocabulary, terminology, conventions (including symbols, quantities and units);

3. scientific instruments and apparatus, including techniques of operation and aspects of

safety;

4. scientific quantities and their determination;

5. scientific and technological applications with their social, economic and environmental
implications.

The subject content defines the factual knowledge that candidates may be required to recall and
explain. Questions testing those objectives will often begin with one of the following words: define,
state, describe, explain or outline. (See the Glossary of Terms in appendix 1.)

B Handling information and solving problems

Students should be able - in words or by using symbolic, graphical and numerical forms of
presentation - to:

1. locate, select, organise and present information from a variety of sources;

2. translate information from one form to another;

3. manipulate numerical and other data;

4. use information to identify patterns, report trends and draw inferences;

5. present reasoned explanations for phenomena, patterns and relationships;

6. make predictions and propose hypotheses;

7. solve problems.

These assessment objectives cannot be precisely specified in the subject content because questions
testing such skills may be based on information that is unfamiliar to the candidate. In answering
such questions, candidates are required to use principles and concepts that are within the syllabus
and apply them in a logical, reasoned or deductive manner to a novel situation. Questions testing
these objectives will often begin with one of the following words: predict, suggest, construct
calculate or determine. (See the Glossary of Terms in appendix 1.)

2
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

C Experimental skills and investigations

Students should be able to:

1. follow a sequence of instructions;

2. use techniques, apparatus and materials;

3. make and record observations, measurements and estimates;

4. interpret, evaluate and report upon observations and experimental results;

5. design/plan an investigation, select techniques, apparatus and materials;

6. evaluate methods and suggest possible improvements.

The apparatus and techniques that candidates should be familiar with are given in Section 1 of the
subject content and in the descriptions of Papers 3 and 4 below, see also appendix 3.

3
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

Candidates are required to enter for Papers 1, 2 and either Paper 3 or Paper 4.

Paper Type of Paper Duration Marks

1 Multiple Choice 1h 40

2 Theory 1 h 30 min 75

3 Practical Test 1 h 30 min 30

4 Alternative to Practical (written) 1h 30

Paper 1 Theory (1 h, 40 marks)

A paper consisting of 40 compulsory multiple choice items of the simple ‘direct choice' type. A
copy of the data sheet (appendix 2) will be printed as part of this Paper.

Paper 2 Theory (1 h 30 min, 75 marks) consisting of two sections

Section A will carry 45 marks and will consist of a small number of compulsory, structured
questions of variable mark value.

Section B will carry 30 marks and will consist of 4 questions each of 10 marks with candidates
being required to attempt 3 questions. A copy of the data sheet (appendix 2) will be printed as
part of this Paper.

Paper 3 Practical Test (1 h 30 min, 30 marks).

This paper will be marked out of 40 and then scaled to a mark out of 30.
Details of the syllabus and requirements for this paper are given in appendix 3.
Candidates are NOT allowed to refer to notebooks, text books or any other information in
the practical examination.

Paper 4 Alternative to Practical (1 h, 30 marks).

This paper will be marked out of 60 and then scaled to a mark out of 30.
A written paper of compulsory short-answer and structured questions designed to test familiarity
with laboratory practical procedures.

Questions may be set requiring candidates to:

(a) record readings from diagrams of apparatus;

(b) describe, explain, comment on or suggest experimental arrangements, techniques and

procedures;

(c) complete tables of data and/or plot graphs;

(d) interpret, draw conclusions from and evaluate observations and experimental (including
graphical) data;

(e) describe tests for gases, ions, oxidising and reducing agents and/or draw conclusions
from such tests;

Candidates may also be required to perform simple calculations.

4
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

Weighting of Assessment Objectives

Theory Papers (Papers 1 and 2)

A Knowledge with understanding, approximately 65% of the marks with approximately half
allocated to recall.

B Handling information and solving problems, approximately 35% of the marks.

Practical Assessment (Papers 3 and 4)

This is designed to test appropriate skills in C, Experimental skills and investigations, and carries
about 20% of the marks for the subject.

5
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

Most of the objectives specified below relate to Knowledge with understanding, although some
indication has been given as to where the skills of Handling information and solving problems
may be developed. Teachers are reminded that, in the written papers, some of the marks are
allocated to these higher ‘thinking' skills. In almost every section, students should therefore be
given practice at dealing with unfamiliar situations so that these higher thinking skills can be
developed.

It is important that, throughout the course, attention should be drawn to:

(i) the finite life of the world's resources and economic and environmental issues relating to
recycling, renewable energy and conservation;

(ii) economic considerations in the chemical industry, such as the availability and cost of raw
materials and energy;

(iii) the social, environmental, health and safety issues relating to the use of chemicals in the
laboratory, in the home and in industry;

(iv) the importance of chemicals in industry and in everyday life.

Asterisks (*) placed alongside learning objectives indicate areas of the syllabus where it is
anticipated that teachers might use applications of IT, as appropriate.

1 EXPERIMENTAL CHEMISTRY
Content

1.1 Experimental design

1.2 Methods of purification and analysis
1.3 Identification of ions and gases

It is expected that any course in Chemistry will be based on experimental work. Teachers
are encouraged to develop appropriate practical work for their students to facilitate a greater
understanding of the subject. Candidates should be aware of the hazards and appropriate
safety precautions to follow when handling the reagents mentioned in this section.

Learning Outcomes:

Candidates should be able to:

1.1 Experimental design

(a) name appropriate apparatus for the measurement of time, temperature, mass and
volume, including burettes, pipettes, measuring cylinders and gas syringes

(b) suggest suitable apparatus, given relevant information, for a variety of simple
experiments, including collection of gases and measurement of rates of reaction

6
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

1.2 Methods of purification and analysis

(a) describe methods of purification by the use of a suitable solvent, filtration and
crystallisation, distillation and fractional distillation, with particular references to the
fractional distillation of crude oil, liquid air and fermented liquor

(b) suggest suitable methods of purification, given information about the substances
involved

(c) describe paper chromatography and interpret chromatograms including comparison

with ‘known’ samples and the use of Rf values

(d) explain the need to use locating agents in the chromatography of colourless
compounds

(e) deduce from the given melting point and boiling point the identities of substances and
their purity

(f) explain that the measurement of purity in substances used in everyday life, e.g.
foodstuffs and drugs, is important

1.3 Identification of ions and gases

(a) describe the use of aqueous sodium hydroxide and aqueous ammonia to identify the
following aqueous cations: aluminium, ammonium, calcium, copper(II), iron(II),
iron(III) and zinc (formulae of complex ions are not required)

(b) describe tests to identify the following anions: carbonate (by the addition of dilute acid
and subsequent use of limewater); chloride (by reaction of an aqueous solution with
nitric acid and aqueous silver nitrate); iodide (by reaction of an aqueous solution with
nitric acid and aqueous lead(II) nitrate); nitrate (by reduction with aluminium and
aqueous sodium hydroxide to ammonia and subsequent use of litmus paper) and
sulphate (by reaction of an aqueous solution with nitric acid and aqueous barium
nitrate)

(c) describe tests to identify the following gases: ammonia (using damp red litmus
paper); carbon dioxide (using limewater); chlorine (using damp litmus paper);
hydrogen (using a burning splint); oxygen (using a glowing splint) and sulphur dioxide
(using acidified potassium dichromate(VI))

(d) describe a chemical test for water

2 THE PARTICULATE NATURE OF MATTER

Content

2.1 Kinetic particle theory

2.2 Atomic structure
2.3 Structure and properties of materials
2.4 Ionic bonding
2.5 Covalent bonding
2.6 Metallic bonding

7
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

Learning Outcomes:

Candidates should be able to:

2.1 Kinetic particle theory

(a) *describe the solid, liquid and gaseous states of matter and explain their
interconversion in terms of the kinetic particle theory and of the energy changes
involved

(b) *describe and explain evidence for the movement of particles in liquids and gases
(the treatment of Brownian motion is not required)

(c) explain everyday effects of diffusion in terms of particles, e.g. the spread of perfumes
and cooking aromas; tea and coffee grains in water

(d) *state qualitatively the effect of molecular mass on the rate of diffusion and explain
the dependence of rate of diffusion on temperature

2.2 Atomic structure

(a) state the relative charges and approximate relative masses of a proton, a neutron and
an electron

(b) *describe, with the aid of diagrams, the structure of an atom as containing protons
and neutrons (nucleons) in the nucleus and electrons arranged in shells (energy
levels) (no knowledge of s, p, d and f classification will be expected; a copy of the
Periodic Table will be available in Papers 1 and 2)

(c) define proton number and nucleon number

12
(d) interpret and use symbols such as 6 C

(e) define the term isotopes

(f) deduce the numbers of protons, neutrons and electrons in atoms and ions from
proton and nucleon numbers

(g) state that some isotopes are radioactive

2.3 Structure and properties of materials

(a) describe the differences between elements, compounds and mixtures

(b) *compare the structure of molecular substances, e.g. methane; iodine, with those of
giant molecular substances, e.g. poly(ethene); sand; diamond; graphite in order to
deduce their properties

(c) *compare the bonding and structures of diamond and graphite in order to deduce
their properties such as electrical conductivity, lubricating or cutting action
(candidates will not be required to draw the structures)

(d) deduce the physical and chemical properties of substances from their structures and
bonding and vice versa

8
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

2.4 Ionic bonding

(a) *describe the formation of ions by electron loss/gain in order to obtain the
electronic configuration of an inert gas

(b) *describe the formation of ionic bonds between metals and non-metals, e.g. NaCl;
MgCl2

(c) *state that ionic materials contain a giant lattice in which the ions are held by
electrostatic attraction, e.g. NaCl (candidates will not be required to draw
diagrams of ionic lattices)

(d) deduce the formulae of other ionic compounds from diagrams of their lattice
structures, limited to binary compounds

(e) relate the physical properties (including electrical property) of ionic compounds to
their lattice structure

2.5 Covalent bonding

(a) *describe the formation of a covalent bond by the sharing of a pair of electrons in
order to gain the electronic configuration of an inert gas

(b) describe, using ‘dot and cross’ diagrams, the formation of covalent bonds between
non-metallic elements, e.g. H2; Cl2; O2 ; HCl; N2; H2O; CH4; C2H4; CO2

(c) deduce the arrangement of electrons in other covalent molecules

(d) relate the physical properties (including electrical property) of covalent compounds
to their structure and bonding

2.6 Metallic bonding

(a) *describe metals as a lattice of positive ions in a ‘sea of electrons’

(b) *relate the malleability of metals to their structure and the electrical conductivity of
metals to the mobility of the electrons in the structure

3 FORMULAE, STOICHIOMETRY AND THE MOLE CONCEPT

Candidates should be able to:

(a) state the symbols of the elements and formulae of the compounds mentioned in
the syllabus

(b) deduce the formulae of simple compounds from the relative numbers of atoms
present and vice versa

(c) deduce the formulae of ionic compounds from the charges on the ions present and
vice versa

(d) interpret and construct chemical equations, with state symbols, including ionic
equations

(e) define relative atomic mass, Ar

(f) define relative molecular mass, Mr, and calculate relative molecular mass (and
relative formula mass) as the sum of relative atomic masses

9
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

(g) calculate the percentage mass of an element in a compound when given appropriate
information

(h) calculate empirical and molecular formulae from relevant data

(i) *calculate stoichiometric reacting masses and volumes of gases (one mole of gas
occupies 24 dm3 at room temperature and pressure); calculations involving the idea of
limiting reactants may be set (questions on the gas laws and the calculations of
gaseous volumes at different temperatures and pressures will not be set)

(j) *apply the concept of solution concentration (in mol/dm3 or g/dm3) to process the
results of volumetric experiments and to solve simple problems (appropriate guidance
will be provided where unfamiliar reactions are involved)

(k) calculate % yield and % purity

4 ELECTROLYSIS
Candidates should be able to:

(a) *describe electrolysis as the conduction of electricity by an ionic compound (an

electrolyte), when molten or dissolved in water, leading to the decomposition of the
electrolyte

(b) *describe electrolysis as evidence for the existence of ions which are held in a lattice
when solid but which are free to move when molten or in solution

(c) describe, in terms of the mobility of ions present and the electrode products, the
electrolysis of molten lead bromide, using inert electrodes

(d) predict the likely products of the electrolysis of a molten binary compound

(e) apply the idea of selective discharge (linked to the reactivity series for cations, see
9.2) to deduce the electrolysis of concentrated aqueous sodium chloride, aqueous
copper(II) sulphate and dilute sulphuric acid using inert electrodes

(f) predict the likely products of the electrolysis of an aqueous electrolyte, given relevant
information

(g) construct ionic equations for the reactions occurring at the electrodes during the
electrolysis of the substances mentioned in the syllabus

(h) *describe the electrolysis of purified aluminium oxide dissolved in molten cryolite as
the method of extraction of aluminium (see 9.5(a))

(i) *describe the electrolysis of aqueous copper(II) sulphate with copper electrodes as a
means of purifying copper

(j) *describe the electroplating of metals, e.g. copper plating, and recall one use of
electroplating

(k) describe the production of electrical energy from simple cells (i.e. two electrodes in an
electrolyte) linked to the reactivity series (see 9.2)

10
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

5 ENERGY FROM CHEMICALS

Candidates should be able to:

(a) describe the meaning of enthalpy change in terms of exothermic ( ∆ H negative) and
endothermic ( ∆ H positive) reactions

(b) *represent energy changes by energy profile diagrams, including reaction enthalpy
changes and activation energies (see 6.1(c))

(c) describe bond breaking as an endothermic process and bond making as an

exothermic process

(d) *explain overall enthalpy changes in terms of the energy changes associated with the
breaking and making of covalent bonds

(e) describe combustion of fuels as exothermic, e.g. wood; coal; oil; natural gas;
hydrogen

(f) describe hydrogen, derived from water or hydrocarbons, as a potential fuel for use in
future, reacting with oxygen to generate electricity directly in a fuel cell (details of the
construction and operation of a fuel cell are not required) and discuss the advantages
and disadvantages of this.

(g) name natural gas, mainly methane, and petroleum as sources of energy

(h) describe petroleum as a mixture of hydrocarbons and its separation into useful
fractions by fractional distillation

(i) name the following fractions and state their uses

(i) petrol (gasoline) as a fuel in cars

(ii) naphtha as feedstock for the chemical industry

(iii) paraffin (kerosene) as a fuel for heating and cooking and for aircraft engines

(iv) diesel as a fuel for diesel engines

(v) lubricating oils as lubricants and as a source of polishes and waxes

(vi) bitumen for making road surfaces

(j) describe photosynthesis as the reaction between carbon dioxide and water in the
presence of chlorophyll, using sunlight (energy) to produce glucose and explain how
this can provide a renewable energy source.

6 CHEMICAL REACTIONS

Content

6.1 Speed of reaction

6.2 Redox
6.3 Reversible reactions

11
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

Learning Outcomes:

Candidates should be able to:

6.1 Speed of reaction

(a) *describe the effect of concentration, pressure, particle size and temperature on the
speeds of reactions and explain these effects in terms of collisions between reacting
particles

(b) define the term catalyst and describe the effect of catalysts (including enzymes) on
the speeds of reactions

(c) *explain how pathways with lower activation energies account for the increase in
speeds of reactions

(d) state that transition elements and their compounds act as catalysts (see 8.3) in a
range of industrial processes and that enzymes are biological catalysts

(e) suggest a suitable method for investigating the effect of a given variable on the speed
of a reaction

(f) *interpret data obtained from experiments concerned with speed of reaction

6.2 Redox

(a) define oxidation and reduction (redox) in terms of oxygen/hydrogen gain/loss

(b) define redox in terms of electron transfer and changes in oxidation state

(c) identify redox reactions in terms of oxygen/hydrogen, and/or electron, gain/loss,

and/or changes in oxidation state

(d) describe the use of aqueous potassium iodide, and acidified potassium
manganate(VII) and acidified potassium dichromate(VI) in testing for oxidising and
reducing agents from the resulting colour changes

6.3 Reversible reactions

(a) describe the idea that some chemical reactions can be reversed by changing the
reaction conditions

(b) describe the idea that some reversible reactions can reach dynamic equilibrium and
predict the effect of changing the conditions

7 THE CHEMISTRY AND USES OF ACIDS, BASES AND SALTS

Content

7.1 The characteristic properties of acids and bases

7.2 Preparation of salts
7.3 Properties and uses of ammonia
7.4 Sulphuric acid

12
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

Learning Outcomes:

Candidates should be able to:

7.1 The characteristic properties of acids and bases

(a) describe the meanings of the terms acid and alkali in terms of the ions they contain or
produce in aqueous solution and their effects on Universal Indicator paper

(b) describe how to test hydrogen ion concentration and hence relative acidity using
Universal Indicator paper and the pH scale

(c) describe the characteristic properties of acids as in reactions with metals, bases and
carbonates

(d) describe qualitatively the difference between strong and weak acids in terms of the
extent of ionisation

(e) describe neutralisation as a reaction between hydrogen ions and hydroxide ions to
produce water, H+ + OH− → H2O

(f) describe the importance of controlling the pH in soils and how excess acidity can be
treated using calcium hydroxide

(g) describe the characteristic properties of bases in reactions with acids and with
ammonium salts

(h) classify oxides as acidic, basic or amphoteric, based on metallic/non-metallic

character

7.2 Preparation of salts

(a) *describe the techniques used in the preparation, separation and purification of salts
as examples of some of the techniques specified in Section 1.2(a)
(methods for preparation should include precipitation and titration together with
reactions of acids with metals, insoluble bases and insoluble carbonates)

(b) describe the general rules of solubility for common salts to include nitrates, chlorides
(including silver and lead), sulphates (including barium, calcium and lead),
carbonates, hydroxides, Group I cations and ammonium salts

(c) suggest a method of preparing a given salt from suitable starting materials, given
appropriate information

7.3 Properties and uses of ammonia

(a) describe the use of nitrogen, from air, and hydrogen, from cracking oil, in the
manufacture of ammonia

(b) state that some chemical reactions are reversible (e.g. manufacture of ammonia)

(c) *describe the essential conditions for the manufacture of ammonia by the Haber
process

(d) describe the use of nitrogenous fertilisers in promoting plant growth and crop yield

(e) compare nitrogen content of salts used for fertilisers by calculating percentage
masses

13
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

(f) describe eutrophication and water pollution problems caused by nitrates leaching
from farm land and explain why the high solubility of nitrates increases these
problems

(g) describe the displacement of ammonia from its salts and explain why adding calcium
hydroxide to soil can cause the loss of nitrogen from added nitrogenous fertiliser

7.4 Sulphuric acid

(a) describe the manufacture of sulphuric acid from the raw materials sulphur, air and
water in the Contact process

(b) state the use of sulphur dioxide as a bleach, in the manufacture of wood pulp for
paper and as a food preservative (by killing bacteria)

(c) state the uses of sulphuric acid in the manufacture of detergents and fertilisers; and
as a battery acid

8 THE PERIODIC TABLE

Content

8.1 Periodic trends

8.2 Group properties
8.3 Transition elements

Learning Outcomes:

Candidates should be able to:

8.1 Periodic trends

(a) describe the Periodic Table as an arrangement of the elements in the order of
increasing proton (atomic) number

(b) *describe how the position of an element in the Periodic Table is related to proton
number and electronic structure

(c) *describe the relationship between Group number and the ionic charge of an element

(d) explain the similarities between the elements in the same Group of the Periodic Table
in terms of their electronic structure

(e) describe the change from metallic to non-metallic character from left to right across a
Period of the Periodic Table

(f) *describe the relationship between Group number, number of valency electrons and
metallic/non-metallic character

(g) *predict the properties of elements in Group I, VII and the Transition elements using
the Periodic Table

8.2 Group properties

(a) describe lithium, sodium and potassium in Group I (the alkali metals) as a collection of
relatively soft, low density metals showing a trend in melting point and in their reaction
with water

14
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

(b) describe chlorine, bromine and iodine in Group VII (the halogens) as a collection of
diatomic non-metals showing a trend in colour, state and their displacement reactions
with solutions of other halide ions

(c) describe the elements in Group 0 (the noble gases) as a collection of monatomic
elements that are chemically unreactive and hence important in providing an inert
atmosphere, e.g. argon and neon in light bulbs; helium in balloons; argon in the
manufacture of steel

(d) describe the lack of reactivity of the noble gases in terms of their electronic structures

8.3 Transition elements

(a) describe the central block of elements (transition metals) as metals having high
melting points, high density, variable oxidation state and forming coloured compounds

(b) state the use of these elements and/or their compounds as catalysts, e.g. iron in the
Haber process; vanadium(V) oxide in the Contact process; nickel in the
hydrogenation of alkenes, and how catalysts are used in industry to lower energy
demands and hence are economically advantageous and help conserve energy
sources.

9 METALS
Content

9.1 Properties of metals

9.2 Reactivity series
9.3 Extraction of metals
9.4 Iron
9.5 Aluminium

Learning Outcomes:

Candidates should be able to:

9.1 Properties of metals

(a) describe the general physical properties of metals (as solids having high melting and
boiling points; malleable; good conductors of heat and electricity) in terms of their
structure

(b) describe alloys as a mixture of a metal with another element, e.g. brass; stainless
steel

(c) identify representations of metals and alloys from diagrams of structures

(d) explain why alloys have different physical properties to their constituent elements

9.2 Reactivity series

(a) place in order of reactivity calcium, copper, (hydrogen), iron, lead, magnesium,
potassium, silver, sodium and zinc by reference to
(i) the reactions, if any, of the metals with water, steam and dilute hydrochloric acid,
(ii) the reduction, if any, of their oxides by carbon and/or by hydrogen

15
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

(b) describe the reactivity series as related to the tendency of a metal to form its positive
ion, illustrated by its reaction with
(i) the aqueous ions of the other listed metals
(ii) the oxides of the other listed metals

(c) deduce the order of reactivity from a given set of experimental results

(d) describe the action of heat on the carbonates of the listed metals and relate thermal
stability to the reactivity series

9.3 Extraction of metals

(a) describe the ease of obtaining metals from their ores by relating the elements to their
positions in the reactivity series

(b) describe metal ores as a finite resource and hence the need to recycle
metals

(c) discuss the social, economic and environmental advantages and disadvantages of
recycling metals e.g. aluminium and copper

9.4 Iron
(a) describe and explain the essential reactions in the extraction of iron using haematite,
limestone and coke in the blast furnace

(b) describe steels as alloys which are a mixture of iron with carbon or other metals and
how controlled use of these additives changes the properties of the iron, e.g. high
carbon steels are strong but brittle whereas low carbon steels are softer and more
easily shaped

(c) state the uses of mild steel (e.g. car bodies; machinery) and stainless steel (e.g.
chemical plant; cutlery; surgical instruments)

(d) describe the essential conditions for the corrosion (rusting) of iron as the presence of
oxygen and water; prevention of rusting can be achieved by placing a barrier around
the metal (e.g. painting; greasing; plastic coating; galvanising)

(e) describe the sacrificial protection of iron by a more reactive metal in terms of the
reactivity series where the more reactive metal corrodes preferentially (e.g.
underwater pipes have a piece of magnesium attached to them)

9.5 Aluminium
(a) outline the manufacture of aluminium from pure aluminium oxide dissolved in cryolite
(starting materials and essential conditions, including identity of electrodes should be
given together with equations for the electrode reactions but no technical details or
diagrams are required)

(b) explain the apparent lack of reactivity of aluminium

(c) state the uses of aluminium and relate the uses to the properties of this metal and its
alloys, e.g. the manufacture of aircraft; food containers; electrical cables

10 ATMOSPHERE AND ENVIRONMENT

Content

10.1 Air
10.2 Water

16
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

Learning Outcomes:

Candidates should be able to:

10.1 Air

(a) describe the volume composition of gases present in dry air as 79% nitrogen, 20%
oxygen and the remainder being noble gases (with argon as the main constituent)
and carbon dioxide

(b) describe the separation of oxygen, nitrogen and the noble gases from liquid air by
fractional distillation

(c) state the uses of oxygen (e.g. in making steel; oxygen tents in hospitals; together with
acetylene, in welding)

(d) name some common atmospheric pollutants (e.g. carbon monoxide; methane;
nitrogen oxides (NO and NO2); ozone; sulphur dioxide; unburned hydrocarbons)

(e) state the sources of these pollutants as

(i) carbon monoxide from incomplete combustion of carbon-containing substances
(ii) methane from bacterial decay of vegetable matter
(iii) nitrogen oxides from lightning activity and internal combustion engines
(iv) ozone from photochemical reactions responsible for the formation of
photochemical smog
(v) sulphur dioxide from volcanoes and combustion of fossil
fuels
(vi) unburnt hydrocarbons from internal combustion engines

(f) describe the reactions used in possible solutions to the problems arising from some of
the pollutants named in (d)
(i) the redox reactions in catalytic converters to remove combustion pollutants
(ii) the use of calcium carbonate to reduce the effect of ‘acid rain’ and in flue gas
desulphurisation

(g) discuss some of the effects of these pollutants on health and on the
environment
(i) the poisonous nature of carbon monoxide
(ii) the role of nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide in the formation of ‘acid rain’ and
its effects on respiration and buildings

(h) discuss the importance of the ozone layer and the problems involved with the
depletion of ozone by reaction with chlorine containing compounds,
chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

(i) *describe the carbon cycle in simple terms, to include

(i) the processes of combustion, respiration and photosynthesis
(ii) how the carbon cycle regulates the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere

(j) state that carbon dioxide and methane are greenhouse gases and may contribute to
global warming, give the sources of these gases and discuss the possible
consequences of an increase in global warming

17
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

10.2 Water

(a) state that water from natural sources contains a variety of dissolved substances
(i) naturally occurring (mineral salts; oxygen; organic matter)
(ii) pollutant (metal compounds; sewage; nitrates from fertilisers; phosphates from
fertilisers and detergents; harmful microbes)

(b) discuss the environmental effects of the dissolved substances named in (a)
(i) beneficial, e.g. oxygen and mineral salts for aquatic life
(ii) pollutant, e.g. hazards to health; eutrophication

(c) outline the purification of the water supply in terms of

(i) filtration to remove solids
(ii) use of carbon to remove tastes and odours
(iii) chlorination to disinfect the water

(d) state that seawater can be converted into drinkable water by desalination

11 ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Content

11.1 Alkanes
11.2 Alkenes
11.1 Alcohols
11.2 Carboxylic acids
11.3 Macromolecules

*The use of molecular models is recommended to enable students to appreciate the three
dimensional structures of molecules

Learning Outcomes:

Candidates should be able to:

(a) state that naphtha fraction from crude oil is the main source of hydrocarbons used as
the feedstock for the production of a wide range of organic compounds

(b) describe the issues relating to the competing uses of oil as an energy source and as
a chemical feedstock

11.1 Alkanes

(a) describe an homologous series as a group of compounds with a general formula,

similar chemical properties and showing a gradation in physical properties as a result
of increase in the size and mass of the molecules, e.g. melting and boiling points;
viscosity; flammability

(b) describe the alkanes as an homologous series of saturated hydrocarbons with the
general formula CnH2n+2

(c) *draw the structures of branched and unbranched alkanes, C1 to C4 and name the
unbranched alkanes, methane to butane

18
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

(d) define isomerism and identify isomers

(e) describe the properties of alkanes (exemplified by methane) as being generally

unreactive except in terms of burning and substitution by chlorine

11.2 Alkenes

(a) describe the alkenes as an homologous series of unsaturated hydrocarbons with the
general formula CnH2n

(b) *draw the structures of branched and unbranched alkenes, C2 to C4 and name the
unbranched alkenes, ethene to butene

(c) describe the manufacture of alkenes and hydrogen by cracking hydrocarbons and
recognise that cracking is essential to match the demand for fractions containing
smaller molecules from the refinery process

(d) describe the difference between saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons from their
molecular structures and by using aqueous bromine

(e) describe the properties of alkenes in terms of combustion, polymerisation and the
addition reactions with bromine, steam and hydrogen

(f) state the meaning of polyunsaturated when applied to food products

(g) describe the manufacture of margarine by the addition of hydrogen to unsaturated

vegetables oils to form a solid product

11.3 Alcohols

(a) describe the alcohols as an homologous series containing the –OH group

(b) *draw the structures of alcohols, C1 to C4 and name the unbranched alcohols,
methanol to butanol

(c) describe the properties of alcohols in terms of combustion and oxidation to carboxylic
acids

(d) describe the formation of ethanol by the catalysed addition of steam to ethene and by
fermentation of glucose

(e) state some uses of ethanol, e.g. as a solvent; as a renewable fuel; as a constituent of
alcoholic beverages

11.4 Carboxylic acids

(a) describe the carboxylic acids as an homologous series containing the –CO2H group

(b) *draw the structures of carboxylic acids, methanoic acid to butanoic acid and name
the unbranched acids, methanoic to butanoic acids

(c) describe the carboxylic acids as weak acids, reacting with carbonates, bases and
some metals

(d) describe the formation of ethanoic acid by the oxidation of ethanol by atmospheric
oxygen or acidified potassium dichromate(VI)

(e) describe the reaction of ethanoic acid with ethanol to form the ester, ethyl ethanoate

(f) state some commercial uses of esters, e.g. perfumes; flavourings; solvents

19
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

11.5 Macromolecules

(a) *describe macromolecules as large molecules built up from small units, different
macromolecules having different units and/or different linkages

(b) describe the formation of poly(ethene) as an example of addition polymerisation of

ethene as the monomer

(c) state some uses of poly(ethene) as a typical plastic, e.g. plastic bags; clingfilm

(d) deduce the structure of the polymer product from a given monomer and vice versa

(e) describe nylon, a polyamide, and Terylene, a polyester, as condensation polymers,

the partial structure of nylon being represented as

O O O O





–C– –C–N– –N–C– –C–N– –N–
   
H H H H

and the partial structure of Terylene as

O O O O





–C– –C–O– –O–C– –C–O– –O–

(details of manufacture and mechanisms of these polymerisations are not required)

(f) state some typical uses of man-made fibres such as nylon and Terylene, e.g.
clothing; curtain materials; fishing line; parachutes; sleeping bags

(g) describe the pollution problems caused by the disposal of non-biodegradable plastics

(h) identify carbohydrates, proteins and fats as natural macromolecules

(i) describe proteins as possessing the same amide linkages as nylon but with different
monomer units

(j) describe fats as esters possessing the same linkages as Terylene but with different
monomer units

(k) describe the hydrolysis of proteins to amino acids and carbohydrates (e.g. starch) to
simple sugars.

20
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

Appendix 1

Calculators may be used in all parts of the examination, providing they are in accordance with the
regulations stated in the "UCLES Handbook for Centres" (General Certificate of Education).

Candidates should be able to:

1. add, subtract, multiply and divide;

2. use averages, decimals, fractions, percentages, ratios and reciprocals;

3. recognise and use standard notation;

4. use direct and inverse proportion;

5. use positive, whole number indices;

6. draw charts and graphs from given data;

7. interpret charts and graphs;

8. select suitable scales and axes for graphs;

9. make approximate evaluations of numerical expressions;

10. recognise and use the relationship between length, surface area and volume, and their units
on metric scales;

11. solve equations of the form x = yz for any one term when the other two are known;

12. comprehend and use the symbols/notations <, >, ≈ , /, ∝ ;

13. comprehend how to handle numerical work so that significant figures are neither lost
unnecessarily nor used beyond what is justified.

21
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

It is hoped that the glossary (which is relevant only to chemistry subjects) will prove helpful to
candidates as a guide, i.e. it is neither exhaustive nor definitive. The glossary has been
deliberately kept brief not only with respect to the number of terms included but also to the
descriptions of their meanings. Candidates should appreciate that the meaning of a term must
depend in part on its context.

1. Define (the term(s)...) is intended literally. Only a formal statement or equivalent paraphrase
being required.

2. What do you understand by/What is meant by (the term(s)...) normally implies that a
definition should be given, together with some relevant comment on the significance or
context of the term(s) concerned, especially where two or more terms are included in the
question. The amount of supplementary comment intended should be interpreted in the
light of the indicated mark value.

3. State implies a concise answer with little or no supporting argument, e.g. a numerical
answer that can be obtained ‘by inspection’.

4. List requires a number of points, generally each of one word, with no elaboration. Where a
given number of points is specified, this should not be exceeded.

5. Explain may imply reasoning or some reference to theory, depending on the context.

6. Describe requires candidates to state in words (using diagrams where appropriate) the main
points of the topic. It is often used with reference either to particular phenomena or to
particular experiments. In the former instance, the term usually implies that the answer
should include reference to (visual) observations associated with the phenomena.

In other contexts, describe and give an account of should be interpreted more generally, i.e.
the candidate has greater discretion about the nature and the organisation of the material to
be included in the answer. Describe and explain may be coupled in a similar way to state
and explain.

7. Discuss requires candidates to give a critical account of the points involved in the topic.

8. Outline implies brevity, i.e. restricting the answer to giving essentials.

9. Predict or deduce implies that the candidate is not expected to produce the required answer
by recall but by making a logical connection between other pieces of information. Such
information may be wholly given in the question or may depend on answers extracted in an
early part of the question.

10. Comment is intended as an open-ended instruction, inviting candidates to recall or infer

points of interest relevant to the context of the question, taking account of the number of
marks available.

11. Suggest is used in two main contexts, i.e. either to imply that there is no unique answer (e.g.
in chemistry, two or more substances may satisfy the given conditions describing an
‘unknown’), or to imply that candidates are expected to apply their general knowledge to a
‘novel’ situation, one that may be formally ‘not in the syllabus’.

12. Find is a general term that may variously be interpreted as calculate, measure, determine
etc.

13. Calculate is used when a numerical answer is required. In general, working should be
shown, especially where two or more steps are involved.

22
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

14. Measure implies that the quantity concerned can be directly obtained from a suitable
measuring instrument, e.g. length, using a rule, or angle, using a protractor.

12. Determine often implies that the quantity concerned cannot be measured directly but is
obtained by calculation, substituting measured or known values of other quantities into a
standard formula, e.g. relative molecular mass.

13. Estimate implies a reasoned order of magnitude statement or calculation of the quantity
concerned, making such simplifying assumptions as may be necessary about points of
principle and about the values of quantities not otherwise included in the question.

14. Sketch, when applied to graph work, implies that the shape and/or position of the curve
need only be qualitatively correct, but candidates should be aware that, depending on the
context, some quantitative aspects may be looked for, e.g. passing through the origin,
having an intercept, asymptote or discontinuity at a particular value.

In diagrams, sketch implies that a simple, freehand drawing is acceptable: nevertheless,

care should be taken over proportions and the clear exposition of important details.

18. Construct is often used in relation to chemical equations where a candidate is expected to
write a balanced equation, not by factual recall but by analogy or by using information in the
question.

Special Note

Units, significant figures. Candidates should be aware that misuse of units and/or significant
figures, i.e. failure to quote units where necessary, the inclusion of units in quantities defined as
ratios or quoting answers to an inappropriate number of significant figures, is liable to be
penalised.

23
CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

Appendix 2

24
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

Appendix 3

The questions in the practical paper may include.

(a) a volumetric analysis problem, based on one set of titrations.

A knowledge of acid/alkali titrations using methyl orange or screened methyl orange will be
assumed. Simple titrations involving other reagents may be set but full instructions and
other necessary information will be given.

(b) an experiment that may involve the determination of some quantity, e.g. a temperature
change or the rate of a reaction. Such experiments will depend on the use of usual
laboratory apparatus.

(c) an observational problem in which the candidate will be asked to investigate, by specified
experiments, an unknown substance or mixture. The exercise may include simple
chromatography, tests for oxidising and reducing agents and filtration.

Systematic analysis will not be required but it will be assumed that candidates will be
familiar with the reactions of the following cations with aqueous sodium hydroxide and
aqueous ammonia (aluminium, ammonium, calcium, copper, iron(II), iron(III) and zinc), and
with the tests for the anions (carbonate, chloride, iodide, nitrate, and sulphate) and gases
(ammonia, carbon dioxide, chlorine, hydrogen, oxygen and sulphur dioxide) as detailed in
the qualitative analysis notes which will be included with the question paper and are
reproduced in this appendix.

Exercise involving organic substances and ions not on the list above may be set but
candidates will only be required to record observations and to draw general conclusions.

Candidates are not allowed to refer to note books, text books or any other information in the
Practical Examination.

Candidates may also be required to carry out simple calculations as detailed in the theory
syllabus.

Practical Techniques for 5070/3

The following notes are intended to give schools and candidates an indication of the accuracy that
is expected in quantitative exercises and general instructions for qualitative exercises.

(a) Candidates should normally record burette readings to the nearest 0.1 cm3 and they should
ensure that they have carried out a sufficient number of titrations, e.g. in an experiment with
a good end-point, two titres within 0.2 cm3.

(b) Candidates should normally record: temperature readings to the nearest 0.5 °C
times to the nearest second.

(c) In qualitative exercises candidates should use approximately 1 cm depth of a solution (1-2
cm3) for each test and add reagents slowly, ensuring good mixing, until no further change is
seen. Candidates should indicate at what stage a change occurs. Answers should include
details of colour changes and precipitates formed and the names and chemical tests for any
gases evolved. Equations are not required and marks for deductions or conclusions can
only be gained if the appropriate observations are recorded.

25
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

Apparatus List for 5070/3

This list given below has been drawn up in order to give guidance to schools concerning the
apparatus that is expected to be generally available for examination purposes. The list is not
intended to be exhaustive, in particular, items (such as bunsen burners, tripods) that are
commonly regarded as standard equipment in a chemical laboratory are not included. The rate of
allocation is ‘per candidate’.

One burette, 50 cm3

One pipette, 25 cm3
A pipette filler
Two conical flasks within the range 150 cm3 to 250 cm3
A measuring cylinder, 50 cm3 or 25 cm3
A filter funnel
A beaker, squat form with lip: 250 cm3
A thermometer, -10 °C to + 110 °C at 1 °C
A polystyrene, or other plastic beaker of approximate capacity 150 cm3
Clocks (or wall-clock) to measure to an accuracy of about 1 s. (Where clocks are specified,
candidates may use their own wrist watch if they prefer.)
Wash bottle
Test-tubes (some of which should be Pyrex or hard glass), approximately 125 mm x 16 mm
Boiling tubes, approximately 150 mm x 25 mm
Stirring rod

Reagents List for 5070/3

This list given below has been drawn up in order to give guidance to schools concerning the
standard reagents that are expected to be generally available for examination purposes. The list
is not intended to be exhaustive and the ‘Instructions to Supervisors’ issued several weeks in
advance of the examination will give a full list of all the reagents that are required for each practical
examination. These instructions also contain advice about colour-blind candidates.

Aqueous sodium hydroxide (approximately 1.0 mol dm-3)

Aqueous ammonia (approximately 1.0 mol dm-3)

Hydrochloric acid (approximately 1.0 mol dm-3)

Nitric acid (approximately 1.0 mol dm-3)
Sulphuric acid (approximately 0.5 mol dm-3)

Aqueous silver nitrate (approximately 0.05 mol dm-3)

Aqueous barium nitrate or aqueous barium chloride (approximately 0.2 mol dm-3)
Aqueous lead(II) nitrate (approximately 0.2 mol dm-3)
Limewater (a saturated solution of calcium hydroxide)
Aqueous potassium dichromate(VI) (approximately 0.1 mol dm-3)
Aqueous potassium manganate(VII) (approximately 0.02 mol dm-3)
Aqueous potassium iodide (approximately 0.1 mol dm-3)

Aluminium foil
Red and blue litmus paper or Universal Indicator paper

Supervisors are reminded of their responsibilities for supplying the Examiners with the
information specified in the instructions. Failure to supply such information may cause
candidates to be unavoidably penalised.
The attention of Centres is drawn to the Handbook for Centres which contains a section on
science Syllabuses which includes information about arrangements for practical examinations.

26
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

Tests for anions

anion test test result

carbonate (CO32-) add dilute acid effervescence, carbon dioxide

produced
-
chloride (Cl ) acidify with dilute nitric acid, white ppt.
[in solution] then add aqueous silver nitrate
-
iodide (I ) acidify with dilute nitric acid, yellow ppt.
[in solution] then add aqueous lead(II) nitrate
nitrate (NO3-) add aqueous sodium hydroxide ammonia produced
[in solution] then aluminium foil; warm
carefully
sulphate (SO42-) acidify with dilute nitric acid white ppt.
[in solution] then add aqueous barium nitrate.

Tests for aqueous cations

effect of aqueous sodium

cation effect of aqueous ammonia
hydroxide

white ppt., soluble in excess

aluminium (Al3+) white ppt., insoluble in excess
giving a colourless solution

ammonium (NH4+ ) ammonia produced on warming -

calcium (Ca2+) white ppt., insoluble in excess no ppt.

light blue ppt., insoluble in light blue ppt., soluble in excess

copper (Cu2+ )
excess giving a dark blue solution
iron(II) (Fe2+ ) green ppt., insoluble in excess green ppt., insoluble in excess

iron(III) (Fe3+ ) red-brown ppt., insoluble in red-brown ppt., insoluble in

excess excess

white ppt., soluble in excess white ppt., soluble in excess

zinc (Zn2+ )
giving a colourless solution giving a colourless solution

Tests for gases

gas test and test result

ammonia (NH3) turns damp red litmus paper blue

carbon dioxide (CO2) turns limewater milky
chlorine (Cl2) bleaches damp litmus paper
hydrogen (H2) "pops" with a lighted splint
oxygen (O 2 ) relights a glowing splint

turns aqueous potassium dichromate(VI) from orange

sulphur dioxide (SO2)
to green

27
 CHEMISTRY 5070 O LEVEL 2006

Teachers may find reference to the following books helpful.

Endorsed Textbooks The following books have been endorsed by CIE for use with this syllabus.
They have been through an independent quality assurance process and match the syllabus
content closely.

*Chemistry by Harwood, R (Edition 2, 2003)

Also suitable for use with the IGCSE Chemistry syllabus
ISBN: 0521530938
Publisher: Cambridge University Press, The Edinburgh Building,
Shaftesbury Road, Cambridge, CB2 2RU, United Kingdom
uk.cambridge.org/education/international/cie

Suggested Textbooks and other books for students The following books are suitable for use with
this syllabus. Content of the books does not necessarily match the CIE syllabus closely and
examples may be British in focus.

Chemistry for IGCSE by Clegg, A ISBN: 0435966758

Publisher: Heinemann, Harcourt Education Ltd, Halley Court,
Jordan Hill, Oxford, OX2 8EJ, United Kingdom
www.heinemann.co.uk

Chemistry by Earl, B and Wilford, L D R ISBN: 0719553032

Publisher: John Murray, Hodder Murray, 338 Euston Road,
London, NW1 3BH, United Kingdom www.johnmurray.co.uk

Chemistry Counts by Hill, G ISBN: 0340639342

Publisher: Hodder and Stoughton, Hodder Headline, 338 Euston
Road, London, NW1 3BH, United Kingdom
www.hodderheadline.co.uk

Thinking Chemistry (GCSE Edition) by Lewis and Waller ISBN:

0199142572
Publisher: Oxford University Press, Great Clarendon Street,
Oxford, OX2 6DP, United Kingdom www4.oup.co.uk/

These titles represent some of the texts available at the time of printing this booklet. Teachers are
encouraged to choose texts for class use which they feel will be of interest to their students and
will support their own teaching style.

The book marked with an asterisk is also available from Cambridge University Press in a Low
Priced Edition (ISBN 0-521-66662-7) from their local distributors in Africa, The Caribbean,
Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. For a full list, or details of distributors in your
local area, please contact Mark Ellwood at CUP ([email protected], tel: +44 1223 312393,
fax: +44 1223 315052).

28