Edexcel International AS Chemistry specification (XCH11)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel International 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 International 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 International AS Chemistry (XCH11) 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 Cambridge International AS Level in Chemistry develops understanding of the principles and concepts that underpin physical, inorganic and organic chemistry. The course encourages learners to apply knowledge to unfamiliar contexts, think critically, and engage with practical science. Emphasis is placed on experimental skills, scientific reasoning and the relevance of chemistry in industry and everyday life. The qualification supports progression to higher education in science and related fields, and promotes awareness of environmental and technological applications of chemistry.
Subject content breakdown
1. Atoms, molecules and stoichiometry
- Relative atomic and molecular masses
- Empirical and molecular formulae
- The mole and chemical equations
2. Atomic structure
- Subatomic particles and atomic models
- Electronic configuration and ionisation energy
3. Chemical bonding
- Ionic, covalent and metallic bonding
- Bond polarity and intermolecular forces
- Shapes of molecules and bond angles
4. States of matter
- Solids, liquids and gases
- Ideal gas equation and gas laws
5. Chemical energetics
- Enthalpy changes and calorimetry
- Hess’s law and bond enthalpies
6. Electrochemistry
- Redox reactions and electrode potentials
- Electrolysis of molten and aqueous compounds
7. Equilibria
- Dynamic equilibrium and Le Chatelier’s principle
- Equilibrium constant Kc and calculations
8. Reaction kinetics
- Rate of reaction and factors affecting rate
- Collision theory and activation energy
9. The Periodic Table: chemical periodicity
- Periodic trends in physical and chemical properties
10. The Periodic Table: Group II and Group VII
- Group II: properties and reactions
- Group VII: halogen reactions and tests
11. An introduction to organic chemistry
- Types of organic compounds and functional groups
- Isomerism and naming
12. Hydrocarbons
- Alkanes and alkenes: structure and reactions
- Mechanisms and industrial uses
13. Halogen compounds
- Reactions, mechanisms and uses of halogenoalkanes
14. Alcohols and esters
- Preparation and reactions of alcohols
- Esters and their properties
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Multiple Choice
- Written exam: 1 hour 15 minutes
- 40 marks
- 40 multiple-choice questions based on AS content
- 31% of AS Level
Paper 2: AS Level Structured Questions
- Written exam: 1 hour 15 minutes
- 60 marks
- Structured and extended-response questions
- 46% of AS Level
Paper 3: Advanced Practical Skills
- Written exam: 2 hours
- 40 marks
- Two or three practical tasks with analysis and evaluation
23% of AS Level
- Candidates must take all three papers in the same series
- Exams available in June and November
- Grading: A–E
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel International 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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