Edexcel International GCSE in Chemistry (4CH0)
In the fundamental study of matter, chemistry serves as the essential blueprint of the physical universe. This course invites you to explore the building blocks of nature by moving from the basics of atomic structure to the complex mechanisms of chemical change. You will gain a solid command of the periodic table and stoichiometry, where you will learn to process experimental data and maintain accurate records of reaction equations.Crucially, you will develop the technical ability to investigate the properties of elements and compounds while ensuring compliance with safe laboratory practice. By mastering the analysis and interpretation of empirical evidence, you will be equipped to evaluate industrial and environmental challenges using scientific reasoning and make sound decisions based on chemical logic.
Core Content Areas
The Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry course is a comprehensive qualification structured around six key pillars of chemical science.
1. Principles of Chemistry
Focuses on the states of matter, atomic structure, bonding types (ionic, covalent, metallic), and electrolysis.
2. Inorganic Chemistry
Explores the Periodic Table trends, specifically Group 1 (alkali metals), Group 7 (halogens), and the composition of the atmosphere.
3. Physical Chemistry
Covers energetics, rates of reaction, and chemical equilibria, explaining how and why reactions occur at different speeds.
4. Organic Chemistry
Examines carbon-based compounds, from crude oil fractions to alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, carboxylic acids, and esters.
5. Acids, Alkalis and Salts
Details the properties of acids and bases, pH scales, titrations, and the solubility rules for preparing salts.
6. Industrial Applications
Looks at real-world applications including the extraction of metals, the manufacturing of polymers, and synthetic materials.
Assessment Structure
The Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry qualification is assessed by two written examination papers.
- Paper 1: This is a 2-hour written exam worth 110 marks. It assesses the core course content (approx. 61.1% of the total qualification).
- Paper 2: This is a 1-hour 15-minute written exam worth 70 marks. It assesses the remaining content and requires a deeper understanding of investigations (approx. 38.9% of the total).
- Both papers include multiple-choice, short-answer, and extended open-response questions, with calculations required throughout.