Edexcel AS Chemistry specification (8CH0)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel AS Chemistry exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel AS Chemistry specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official Edexcel AS Chemistry (8CH0) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official Edexcel specification PDF.
Specification overview
This AS Chemistry course (Pearson Edexcel) provides a broad and engaging introduction to core chemical principles and laboratory techniques. It helps students develop theoretical understanding and practical competence across physical, inorganic, and organic chemistry. The specification promotes analytical thinking, quantitative skills, and scientific literacy, supporting progression to higher education or careers in chemistry and related disciplines. Ethical and environmental aspects of chemistry are also explored through contemporary applications.Subject content breakdown
Topic 1: Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table
- Atomic models, subatomic particles, isotopes
- Electron configuration and periodicity
- Ionisation energies and trends across Period 3
Topic 2: Bonding and Structure
- Ionic, covalent, and metallic bonding
- Shapes of molecules using electron-pair repulsion theory
- Intermolecular forces and their effects on boiling/melting points
- Structure and properties of materials
Topic 3: Redox I
- Oxidation numbers and redox reactions
- Writing and balancing redox equations
- Use of oxidation numbers to identify agents and changes
Topic 4: Inorganic Chemistry and the Periodic Table
- Physical and chemical properties of Group 2 and Group 7
- Reactivity trends and their explanation
- Tests for halide ions and carbonate/sulfate
Topic 5: Formulae, Equations and Amounts of Substance
- Moles, molar masses, and balanced equations
- Empirical and molecular formulae
- Titration and volumetric analysis
- Atom economy and percentage yield
Topic 6: Organic Chemistry I
- Introduction to hydrocarbons, alkanes, and alkenes
- Reactions: substitution, addition, polymerisation
- Isomerism: structural and stereoisomerism
- Alcohols and halogenoalkanes: reactions and mechanisms
Topic 7: Modern Analytical Techniques I
- Infrared (IR) spectroscopy
- Mass spectrometry
- Identification of functional groups
Topic 8: Energetics I
- Enthalpy changes: formation, combustion, neutralisation
- Calorimetry and Hess’s Law
- Bond enthalpies and their use in calculations
Topic 9: Kinetics I
- Collision theory and factors affecting rate
- Catalyst effects and energy profiles
- Experimental determination of rate changes
Topic 10: Equilibrium I
- Dynamic equilibrium and Le Chatelier’s Principle
- Factors affecting position of equilibrium
- Equilibrium constant (Kc) calculations
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Core Inorganic and Physical Chemistry
- Written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes
- 80 marks, 50% of AS
- Topics: 1–5 and 8
- Multiple-choice, short and extended response questions
Paper 2: Core Organic and Physical Chemistry
- Written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes
- 80 marks, 50% of AS
- Topics: 1–4 and 6–10
- Includes questions on practical techniques and data analysis
Assessment Features
- Use of mathematical skills (minimum 20% of marks)
- Practical skills assessed through written exams (no practical endorsement at AS)
- Use of contemporary and applied contexts
Grading and Certification
- Linear structure: assessment at end of course
- Graded A–E at AS level (separate from A level)
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel AS Chemistry isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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