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A Level Chemistry Summer Task

Rationale:

• work independently to develop a concrete understanding of the topic, in doing this demonstrate and extend your skills in preparation for this demanding course

Expectation:

• Build on GCSE prior knowledge using sound research skills • Present information clearly using diagrams and equations with an aim to minimise the word count of

your work to develop a concrete understanding of the topic • Test your understanding using genuine A Level standard questions, and if necessary review your

work to extend your understanding

Topic Area: Alkanes and Petroleum

Alkanes are the main constituent of crude oil, which is an important raw material for the chemical industry. Alkanes are also used as fuels and the environmental consequences of this must be considered in their use.

Separation of Hydrocarbons in Crude oil by Fractional Distillation

• Use examples to explain that alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons

• Explain how the alkanes in crude oil are separated by fractional distillation

• Define term fractions and give some uses of the fractions of crude oil

Cracking is useful – why? How – two ways?

• Describe how thermal and catalytic cracking are completed

• Identify the types of compounds that are produced.

• Compare the processes identifying similarities and differences.

• Give reasons for the commercial benefits of cracking

Combustion of Alkanes

• Explain the terms complete and incomplete combustion of alkanes – use symbol equations justify your ideas

• Explain how a number of pollutants including NOx, CO, C and unburned hydrocarbons are formed in the internal combustion engine - use symbol equations justify your ideas

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Pollution Problems From Burning Alkanes and How These Can Be Reduced.

• Describe how emissions from pollutants from cars can be reduced with the use of catalytic converters - use symbol equations justify your ideas

• Explain the term ‘Global Warming’ identifying the gases considered to cause this and the effect on our planet

• Explain why SO2 may be formed when fuels are burned and the pollution problems that this causes.

• Describe and recall equations to explain how sulphur dioxide can be removed from flue gases.

Key websites and information

See additional list from AQA - AQA A level Chemistry Recommended WEB-RESOURCES 7404-7405

Relevant sections of text book A-Level Year 1 Chemistry AQA by CGP

Testing Your Understanding

Summer task exam questions

- Do you need to do further research? A key word that needs defining or clarifying in your mind?

- Is there a style of question which is causing you a particular problem?

- Highlight the question and note your queries so we can solve them when you see us in september

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