Chemistry IGCSE 1 (0620)

The Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry (0620) course outline covers 14 core topic areas ranging from basic matter to organic chemistry.

Main Syllabus Topics

1. States of matter: Solid, liquid, and gas particle arrangements, kinetic theory, and diffusion.
2. Atoms, elements, and compounds: Atomic structure, isotopes, formulas, and the Periodic Table.
3. Stoichiometry: Chemical equations, relative masses, and the mole concept.
4. Electrochemistry: Processes of electrolysis, ion discharge, and electroplating.
5. Chemical energetics: Exothermic and endothermic reactions and energy level diagrams.
6. Chemical reactions: Factors affecting reaction rates and reversible reactions/equilibrium.
7. Acids, bases, and salts: Properties of acids and alkalis, neutralization, and preparation of salts.
8. The Periodic Table: Trends in Group 1 (alkali metals), Group 7 (halogens), and transition elements.
9. Metals: Properties, the reactivity series, extraction of iron and zinc, and alloys.
10. Chemistry of the environment: Water quality tests, air pollution, and greenhouse gases.
11. Organic chemistry: Homologous series, alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, and carboxylic acids.
12. Experimental techniques and chemical analysis: Chromatography, purification, identification of gases, and qualitative analysis for specific cations and anions.

Assessment Structure

1. Core Curriculum: Students take Paper 1 (Multiple Choice, 45 minutes) and Paper 3 (Theory, 1 hour 15 minutes), covering grades C to G.
2. Extended Curriculum: Students take Paper 2 (Multiple Choice, 45 minutes) and Paper 4 (Theory, 1 hour 15 minutes), covering grades A* to G.
3. Practical Assessment: Students complete either Paper 5 (Practical Test) or Paper 6 (Alternative to Practical)