Skip to notes
wise otter.Chemistry
Contents
Combined Science Chemistry

Chemistry study notes

Experimental Chemistry

Select apparatus, separate mixtures and judge what measurements actually show.

O-Level 5086 / 5088 (2026) / SEC G3 K326 / K328 (2027)

Start learningQuick revisionRead whole chapter

Choose a topic

6 topics

  1. Choose a measurement that answers the question

    Apparatus choice depends on range, precision and what changes.

  2. Collect a gas using its properties

    Solubility and density determine a suitable setup.

  3. Separate by solubility and particle size

    Recover the intended substance, not just any solid.

  4. Distillation and liquid layers

    Use boiling-point differences or immiscibility.

  5. Read the evidence in a chromatogram

    Compare spots under the same conditions.

  6. Use melting and boiling data

    A physical measurement supports identity; a single match is not proof.

Scope and references

Learning outcomes and sources

1. Experimental Chemistry (5086 / 5088 / K326 / K328). Use the outcome map to find the explanation for a particular syllabus requirement.

See the learning outcome map

  1. 1.1(a) Select measuring apparatus

    • Time, temperature, mass and volume
    • Burettes, pipettes, measuring cylinders and gas syringes

    Choose a measurement that answers the question

  2. 1.1(b) Select simple experimental setups

    • Gas collection
    • Rate measurements

    Choose a measurement that answers the questionCollect a gas using its properties

  3. 1.2(a) Describe separation methods

    • Solvent, filtration, crystallisation, evaporation
    • Simple/fractional distillation
    • Paper chromatography

    Separate by solubility and particle sizeDistillation and liquid layersRead the evidence in a chromatogram

  4. 1.2(b) Choose methods from properties

    • Solid-solid
    • Solid-liquid
    • Miscible liquid-liquid

    Separate by solubility and particle sizeDistillation and liquid layers

  5. 1.2(c) Interpret chromatograms

    • Comparison with known samples
    • Rf not required

    Read the evidence in a chromatogram

  6. 1.2(d) Infer identity and purity

    • Melting and boiling data

    Use melting and boiling data