WJEC A Level Chemistry
WJEC A Level Chemistry 1.2 Basic Ideas About Atoms Exam Questions
Free WJEC A Level Chemistry exam questions on 1.2 Basic Ideas About Atoms, with mark schemes. Covers atomic structure, isotopes, radioactivity, electronic configuration, ionisation energies and spectra.
1.2 Basic Ideas About Atoms exam questions
1 question pack of real past exam questions with its mark scheme. Answer every question without notes, then mark your answers line by line against the mark scheme.
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WJEC A Level Chemistry Flashcards (Anki & Quizlet)
Every answer is written in mark scheme wording, so you learn exactly what examiners give marks for. Use them on Anki or Quizlet, then test yourself with the questions on this page.
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About WJEC A Level Chemistry 1.2 Basic Ideas About Atoms
This topic covers what atoms are made of and how electrons are arranged.
What you need to know
- Atomic structure Protons, neutrons and electrons; isotopes and relative atomic mass.
- Radioactivity Alpha, beta and gamma decay, half-life and uses and dangers of radioisotopes.
- Electron configuration s, p, d sub-shells and orbitals, including Cr and Cu exceptions.
- Ionisation energy and spectra Trends in successive and first ionisation energies; emission spectra and the Lyman and Balmer series.
Common mistakes in 1.2 Basic Ideas About Atoms
- Writing 4s after 3d when filling electrons.
- Confusing mass number with relative atomic mass.
- Not explaining the drop in IE between groups 2 and 3.
Try three 1.2 Basic Ideas About Atoms exam-style questions
1. Write the electron configuration of Fe. (1 mark)
Show the mark scheme answer
1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 3d⁶ 4s².
2. Explain why the first ionisation energy of Mg is higher than Al. (2 marks)
Show the mark scheme answer
The outer electron in Al is in a 3p sub-shell (1), which is higher in energy and slightly shielded by 3s electrons, so easier to remove (1).
3. State what is meant by half-life. (1 mark)
Show the mark scheme answer
The time taken for half the radioactive nuclei in a sample to decay.
1.2 Basic Ideas About Atoms FAQs
What does Basic Ideas About Atoms cover?
Atomic structure, isotopes, radioactivity, electron configuration, ionisation energies and spectra.
Do I need to explain emission spectra?
Yes, as electrons falling between energy levels emitting specific frequencies.
Why are Cr and Cu exceptions?
A half-filled or full 3d sub-shell is more stable.
Revise this topic with flashcards: WJEC A Level Chemistry Flashcards, with mark scheme answers for Anki and Quizlet.
