Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry specification (4CH1)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel IGCSE 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 IGCSE 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 IGCSE Chemistry (4CH1) 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
The Edexcel International GCSE in Chemistry provides students with a solid foundation in chemical principles, structures, processes, and applications. It encourages learners to explore chemistry in real-world and experimental contexts, fostering scientific enquiry and critical analysis. Students develop their understanding of atoms, bonding, chemical reactions, energy changes, and organic processes. The course nurtures practical and investigative skills, preparing students for progression to A Level Chemistry and science-related pathways. Emphasis is placed on developing logical thinking, data interpretation, and mathematical application in chemistry.
Subject content breakdown
1 Principles of chemistry
- States of matter and changes; diffusion; solutions and solubility.
- Elements, compounds and mixtures; separation techniques; chromatography.
- Atomic structure; Periodic Table; isotopes; relative atomic mass.
- Formulae, equations, calculations; moles, empirical/molecular formulae.
- Ionic, covalent and metallic bonding; properties and structures.
- Electrolysis; electrochemical reactions; half-equations.
2 Inorganic chemistry
- Group 1 and Group 7: reactivity trends and properties.
- Gases in the atmosphere; gas tests and environmental effects.
- Reactivity series and redox; rust prevention.
- Metal extraction methods; alloy uses and properties.
- Acids, alkalis, indicators, titrations.
- Salt preparation methods and solubility rules.
- Identification of ions and gases via qualitative tests.
3 Physical chemistry
- Energetics: exothermic/endothermic reactions, enthalpy changes.
- Rates of reaction: factors and collision theory.
- Reversible reactions and equilibrium; dynamic equilibrium and conditions.
4 Organic chemistry
- Hydrocarbons: alkanes, alkenes; fractional distillation; combustion.
- Cracking and environmental impact of fuels.
- Alcohols and carboxylic acids: structure, reactions, uses.
- Esters: formation, properties, uses.
- Synthetic polymers: addition and condensation; environmental disposal issues.
Assessment structure
Chemistry Paper 1 (4CH1/1C)
- 2 hours; 110 marks; 61.1% of qualification.
- Assesses core content (not bolded or labelled ‘C’).
- Covers all four topics: principles, inorganic, physical, and organic chemistry.
- Includes multiple choice, short-answer, calculations, and extended-response questions.
Chemistry Paper 2 (4CH1/2C)
- 1 hour 15 minutes; 70 marks; 38.9% of qualification.
- Assesses all content, including material in bold with ‘C’ references (greater depth).
- Covers same four topic areas.
- Uses the same mix of question types as Paper 1.
Assessment Objectives
- AO1: Knowledge and understanding – 38–42%
- AO2: Application and analysis – 38–42%
- AO3: Experimental skills and evaluation – 19–21%
Experimental Skills
- Practical content integrated into written exams.
- Students assessed on planning, methods, data analysis, interpretation, and evaluation.
Grading
- Total 180 marks; grades awarded 9–1.
- All exams taken at the end of the course (linear).
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel IGCSE 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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