What to revise for chemistry paper 2?

For Chemistry Paper 2, revise physical chemistry (rates, equilibrium, energetics) and organic chemistry, focusing on reaction types (alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, carboxylic acids, esters) and analysis techniques like spectroscopy (NMR) and chromatography, plus essential math skills (calculations, empirical formula, % yield) and required practicals (rate monitoring, distillation, recrystallization) for both GCSE & A-Level, tailoring to your exam board (AQA, OCR, Edexcel).

How to prepare for chemistry paper 2?

Paper 2 - General advice

1. Read all of the questions carefully.
2. Highlight or underline key information. For example, to carry out a calculation it would be worth clearly marking the following:
3. Show your working for calculations.

What topics are usually on chemistry Paper 2?

Topics that are usually examined in Paper 2

• Bonding (Focus of Paper 1)
• Energetics.
• Kinetics.
• Alkanes.
• Halogenoalkanes (Focus of Paper 3)
• Alcohols.
• Organic Analysis.
• Optical Isomerism.

What comes up in Chem Paper 2?

The second paper covers topics 6-10: the rate and extent of chemical change; organic chemistry; chemical analysis, chemistry of the atmosphere and using resources.

What to expect in chemistry paper 2?

The exam tests understanding of topics including chemical equations, reactivity, periodic trends in properties, and compound formation and conductivity.

AQA A Level Chemistry | Paper 1 Predictions 2025 | The Topics to Prioritise for Revision

Is it hard to get an A* in chemistry?

Yes, getting an A* in Chemistry (especially at A-Level/AP) is generally considered hard due to complex concepts, significant math/physics integration, and the large amount of detailed knowledge required, with historically low percentages of students achieving it. Success requires strong foundational skills, consistent practice with past papers, excellent problem-solving, and mastering both theory and practical applications, often needing more dedication than many other subjects. 

Is chemistry a hard science?

Recent rankings place chemistry at or near the top of hardest majors, reflecting both the academic and hands-on demands of the curriculum. However, the perceived difficulty of chemistry can vary widely by institution and individual background.

What topics are in Chem 2?

Topics include kinetics, equilibrium, ionic and redox equations, acid-base theory, electrochemistry, thermodynamics, introduction to nuclear and organic chemistry, and complex ions.

Is chemistry 2 hard in college?

Is General Chemistry II hard? Gen Chem II can be challenging, especially if you struggled with Gen Chem I. The concepts are more abstract and math-heavy, which can trip up some students. But don't panic - with consistent effort and practice, it's totally manageable.

How long is Chem Paper 2?

The second test paper focuses on the last five topics, so you'll be asked questions on the following: the rate and extent of chemical change; organic chemistry; chemical analysis, chemistry of the atmosphere; and using resources. Like paper 1, the test lasts for 1 hour 45 minutes and is written.

What is the hardest chem class in college?

The hardest college chemistry class is widely considered to be Organic Chemistry, known as the "pre-med killer" for its massive memorization, complex 3D thinking, and heavy workload, but Physical Chemistry (P-Chem) is a close contender, challenging students with rigorous math (calculus, differential equations) and abstract concepts from physics like thermodynamics and quantum mechanics, often considered harder by pure chemistry majors. 

How to get an A* in A-level chemistry?

How to Get an A* in A-Level Chemistry

1. Master Multiple Choice Questions. ...
2. Conquer Quantitative Chemistry. ...
3. Exam-Style Papers Tailored to Your Exam Board. ...
4. Make the Most of Targeted Revision Resources. ...
5. Focus on Examiner Expectations. ...
6. Join Thousands of A* Students.

What are the 5 hardest GCSEs?

• GCSE exam statistics (2025) - Hardest GCSEs.
• Explaining our Top 10 Hardest GCSEs list.
• 1) Combined Science (Double Award)
• 2) Maths.
• 3) English Language.
• 4) History.
• 5) Geography.
• 7) Computer Science.

What is the #1 easiest major?

There's no single #1 easiest major, as it depends on your strengths, but Psychology, Education, English, and Criminal Justice frequently rank as the easiest due to higher average GPAs and less demanding technical skills compared to STEM fields, often focusing on human behavior, societal structures, and communication. Majors like Sociology, Social Work, and Communications are also commonly cited as easier liberal arts options. 

Is it normal to fail chemistry in college?

On average about 25% fail general chemistry according to Cooper and Peterson (2012). Others have found rates from 40-60%. That's a lot of students and you don't want to be one of them.

What is the top 1 hardest course?

Top 10 Toughest Courses in the World in 2026

• Medicine.
• Engineering.
• Neuroscience Courses.
• Chartered Accountancy.
• Quantum Physics Courses.
• Mathematics - BSc/BS Mathematics.
• Architecture.
• Economics.

How to pass chemistry paper 2?

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATES

1. Answer all the questions in the spaces provided .
2. KNEC Mathematical tables and silent electronic calculators may be used.
3. All working must be clearly shown where necessary.
4. Candidates should answer the questions in English.

What are 10 things you should not do in a lab?

10 Things NOT to Do in a Research Lab

• Wearing open-toed shoes. ...
• Keeping long hair down. ...
• Eating or drinking. ...
• Erasing data from your notebook. ...
• Showing up late. ...
• Forgetting to label samples or materials. ...
• Incorrectly disposing of your materials. ...
• Wearing shorts.

Is a 9 top 5%?

Students who perform exceptionally well receive a 9, usually the top 5% of the cohort.

Is 70% a 7 in GCSE?

What is 70% in GCSE grades? A score of 70% will usually get you a grade 7 or 8 at GCSE, depending on the subject and your exam board's grade boundaries for that year. Here are the percentages you'll need to reach a grade 8 in English and Maths. Most are just above or below the 70% mark.

Is grade 3 a fail at GCSE?

Is a 3 a Pass in GCSE. As mentioned above, any grade below a 4 in the 9-1 grading system will be registered as a fail, so if you score 3 in a subject, then you will have to retake it to earn the qualification. Keep in mind that grades 3,2, and 1 are the equivalent of: D.