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A-LevelChemistryGroup 17May/June 2013Paper 1 Q191 Mark

The halogens exist as diatomic molecules, X₂. The boiling points of the Group VII elements increase as the group is descended from chlorine to iodine. Which statement helps to explain this increase in boiling point as Group VII is descended?

AThe electronegativity of X decreases as the group is descended.
BThe number of electrons in each X₂ molecule increases as the group is descended.
CThe size of the permanent dipole in the X₂ molecule increases as the group is descended.
DThe X–X bond strength increases as the group is descended.

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is B: The number of electrons in each X₂ molecule increases as the group is descended.

📋 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 Group 17 in A-Level Chemistry (syllabus code 9701). It is worth 1 mark.

Source

This question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Chemistry May/June 2013 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2.

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