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Carbon & its Compounds

High trendapprox. 7 marksSections C/D — homologous series, functional groups and combustion / substitution reactions.
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Learn the 9 conceptsteach yourself first, then practise each
Covalent bonds — formation and properties of covalent compounds2–3 marks

Show electron sharing (single, double, triple bonds) and explain the low melting points and poor conductivity.

Tetravalency and catenation of carbon1–2 marks

Explain why carbon forms so many compounds.

Saturated and Unsaturated Carbon Compounds1–5 marks

Tell alkanes (only single bonds) from alkenes and alkynes (double / triple bonds) and write their structures.

Chains, Branches and Rings1–5 marks

Draw straight-chain, branched and ring skeletons, and the structural isomers of a formula such as C₄H₁₀.

Homologous series (general formula, e.g. CₙH₂ₙ₊₂)2–3 marks Visual

Predict the next member's formula and properties trend.

Functional groups (–OH, –CHO, –COOH, >C=O, –Cl, –Br)2–3 marks

Identify and name the group; predict typical reactions.

Chemical Properties of Carbon Compounds1–5 marks

Write combustion, oxidation, addition (hydrogenation) and substitution reactions, and tell the clean flame of saturated from the sooty flame of unsaturated.

Reactions of ethanol and ethanoic acid2–3 marks

Write esterification and oxidation equations precisely.

Soaps vs detergents (cleansing action)2–3 marks Visual

Describe micelle formation and hard-water behaviour.

When you’re ready — practise or test the whole topic