Edexcel GCSE Chemistry Paper One Review

Overview

This review covers key concepts from the Edexcel GCSE Chemistry Paper One specification, explained in detail with high standards.

Development of Atomic Models

• Dalton’s Model: Solid sphere, cannot be created, destroyed, or divided.
• JJ Thompson’s Plum Pudding Model: Positive charge with negative electrons embedded.
• Rutherford’s Nuclear Model: Central nucleus with empty space around it, based on the alpha scattering experiment.
• Electron Shell Model: Electrons orbit nucleus in fixed shells.
• Chadwick’s Neutron Discovery: Provided evidence of neutrons in the nucleus.

Atomic Structure

• Atom: Smallest part of an element, represented by a chemical symbol.
• Size: Atoms have a radius of about 0.1 nm, nucleus is 1/10,000 of the atom.
• Element: Substance made of one type of atom.
• Compound: Two or more different elements chemically combined.

Chemical Reactions

• Chemical Equations: Represent reactions with reactants and products.
• Balancing Equations: Same number of each type of atom on both sides.
• Common Formulas: CO₂, H₂O, O₂, H₂, N₂, NH₃, HCl, H₂SO₄.

Subatomic Particles

• Protons: +1 charge, found in nucleus.
• Neutrons: 0 charge, found in nucleus.
• Electrons: -1 charge, found in shells.

Periodic Table

• Groups and Periods: Vertical columns and horizontal rows, respectively.
• Metals vs Non-Metals: Metals form positive ions, non-metals form negative ions.
• Trends: Similar properties in groups, periodicity in properties.

Types of Bonding

• Ionic Bonds: Between metals and non-metals, transfer of electrons.
• Covalent Bonds: Sharing electrons, non-metal atoms.
• Metallic Bonds: Found in metals, shared delocalized electrons.

Giant Structures and Molecules

• Ionic Compounds: Giant lattice structures with electrostatic forces.
• Covalent Structures: Can be small molecules or giant structures like diamond.
• Metals: Giant structures, electrons free to move.

Chemical Calculations

• Moles: Avogadro's constant (6.02 x 10²³).
• Relative Atomic/Molecular Mass: Used to calculate moles and mass.
• Concentration: Mass per unit volume or moles per unit volume.

Chemical Processes

• Electrolysis: Decomposition using electricity.
• Reactivity Series: Predicts displacement reactions and extraction methods.
• Alloys and Uses: Mixing metals for improved properties.

Testing and Analysis

• Indicators: Litmus, methyl orange, phenolphthalein to test pH.
• Gas Tests: Hydrogen (squeaky pop), carbon dioxide (lime water turns cloudy).

Water and Solutions

• Potable Water: Safe to drink, low in microbes and salts.
• Filtration and Distillation: Methods to purify water.

Environmental Impact

• Recycling: Conserves resources, reduces energy use.
• Life Cycle Assessments: Assess environmental impact of products.

Industry and Applications

• Haber Process: Synthesis of ammonia using nitrogen and hydrogen.
• Fuel Cells: Produce electricity from chemical reactions, hydrogen fuel cells.

These notes provide a comprehensive review of key concepts and processes covered in the Edexcel GCSE Chemistry Paper One specification.