WASSCE Chemistry · Paper 1 style

Carbon

One sample question with the full working. 5 more in the app, with instant feedback and repair sessions for the traps below.

Graphite conducts electricity because

Ait contains ions
Beach carbon is bonded to four others
Cit is a metal
Deach carbon atom has one delocalised electron

Show the answer and working

Answer: D

Free electrons move between layers.

Trap A Mixes up a pair of similar chemical terms: Keep a list of confusable pairs with one defining feature each and a hook. Underline the key word in the stem and check it against the definition, not the sound of the name.

Trap B Picks a related substance or process with a different role: Learn reagents and processes as one-line 'name → job' cards and contrast neighbours in a table (process | product | catalyst | conditions). Match the job in the stem, not just the topic.

Trap C Uses everyday or macroscopic thinking instead of particles: Ask what the particles, ions or electrons are doing. Properties of a substance come from its particles and bonds, not from how it looks or feels.

Traps in Carbon

Mixes up a pair of similar chemical terms
Keep a list of confusable pairs with one defining feature each and a hook. Underline the key word in the stem and check it against the definition, not the sound of the name.
Picks a related substance or process with a different role
Learn reagents and processes as one-line 'name → job' cards and contrast neighbours in a table (process | product | catalyst | conditions). Match the job in the stem, not just the topic.
Uses everyday or macroscopic thinking instead of particles
Ask what the particles, ions or electrons are doing. Properties of a substance come from its particles and bonds, not from how it looks or feels.
Puts a substance or reaction in the wrong class
Classify from the defining feature: functional group for organic series; bond type and structure for properties; reaction with acid AND alkali for amphoteric. Check each option against the feature, not the name.
Chooses a true but irrelevant statement
Re-read the question word (why, which, what causes). A true fact that answers a different question is still wrong.
Properties of metals and compounds errors
Reactivity: K > Na > Ca > Mg > Al > Zn > Fe > Pb > H > Cu > Ag > Au. Amphoteric oxides/hydroxides: Al, Zn, Pb. Rusting needs BOTH water and oxygen; prevented by painting, galvanising (zinc), sacrificial protection.

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