Chemistry study notes
Particles and Atoms
From changes of state to counting the particles in atoms and ions.
O-Level 5086 / 5088 (2026) / SEC G3 K326 / K328 (2027)
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Learning outcomes
2. The Particulate Nature of Matter (5086 / 5088 / K326 / K328). Use the outcome map to find the explanation for a particular syllabus requirement.
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2.1(a) Explain states and their interconversion
- Solid, liquid and gas particle arrangements and movements
- Melting, freezing, boiling/evaporation, condensation, sublimation
- Energy changes during state changes
2.2(a) Compare subatomic particles
- Relative charges and approximate relative masses of proton, neutron, electron
2.2(b) Represent atomic structure
- Nucleons in nucleus
- Electrons in shells shown in a diagram
- No s/p/d/f classification
2.2(c) Define proton and nucleon numbers
- Proton number Z
- Nucleon number A
2.2(d) Read and write nuclide notation
- Carbon-12 notation
- Atomic and mass-number positions
2.2(e) Recognize isotopes
- Same proton number; different neutron number
2.2(f) Count particles in atoms and ions
- Use proton/nucleon numbers
- Account for positive and negative ion charges