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Paper 1
Chemical Changes
Both
Learn the order: Potassium, Sodium, Calcium, Magnesium, Aluminium, Carbon, Zinc, Iron, Hydrogen, Copper.
Key Facts
- Oxidation is loss of electrons; reduction is gain.
- Hydrogen is produced when electrolysis competes with metal ions.
Topics Covered
Reactivity Series
What you need to know
- •More reactive metals displace less reactive metals.
- •Extracting metals uses reduction.
Exam Tips
- Use the word "displacement" when describing reactions.
Acids, Bases, and Salts
What you need to know
- •Acids release H+; alkalis release OH-.
- •Neutralisation forms salt and water.
Exam Tips
- Name the salt by acid and metal/carbonate.
Electrolysis
What you need to know
- •Ions move to opposite electrodes.
- •Metals form at the cathode; non-metals at the anode.
Exam Tips
- Explain products using reactivity and ion charges.
Key Terms
Redox
Oxidation and reduction in the same reaction.
Electrolysis
Breaking down compounds using electricity.
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Common Exam Questions
Explain why aluminium is extracted by electrolysis.
3 marksmediumPaper 1
Model Answer
Aluminium is above carbon in the reactivity series, so it cannot be reduced by carbon; electrolysis is used.
What examiners want to see
- ✓Mention reactivity series.
- ✓Link to reduction by carbon.
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