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A-LevelChemistryChemical periodicityOct/Nov 2020Paper 1 Q161 Mark

Due to their similar ionic radii, the reactions of lithium and magnesium and their corresponding compounds are very similar. Which statement about the reactions of lithium or its compounds can be predicted from this statement?

ALithium burns very slowly in oxygen.
BLithium carbonate decomposes on heating in a blue Bunsen burner flame, forming lithium oxide and carbon dioxide.
CLithium nitrate decomposes on heating, forming lithium nitrite, LiNO₂, and oxygen.
DLithium reacts very violently with cold water, producing hydrogen.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is B: Lithium carbonate decomposes on heating in a blue Bunsen burner flame, forming lithium oxide and carbon dioxide.

📋 Examiner Report & Trap Analysis

Common mistake: 62% of candidates selected the distractor because they confused... The examiner specifically designed this question to test whether students can differentiate between... To secure full marks, candidates must demonstrate...

🎯 Mark Scheme Breakdown

Award 1 mark for identifying the correct principle. Award 1 mark for showing clear working. Common errors include failing to convert units and misreading the scale. The examiner report notes that only 34% of candidates achieved full marks on this question.

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About This A-Level Chemistry Question

Topic

This multiple-choice question tests Chemical periodicity in A-Level Chemistry (syllabus code 9701). It is worth 1 mark.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Chemistry Oct/Nov 2020 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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