Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · States of matter

States of matter — practice question

(a(i))[1]

The mass spectrum for silicon is shown. Calculate the $A_r$ of silicon. Give your answer to two decimal places.

(a(ii))[1]

Silicon forms a chloride with a low boiling point, and that chloride reacts with water. Write an equation to show the reaction of the chloride with water.

(a(iii))[2]

Draw a three-dimensional diagram showing the shape of the chloride. Give the $\text{Cl-Si-Cl}$ bond angle.

(a(iv))[2]

Silicon reacts with oxygen to produce a high melting point oxide. Suggest the formula of the oxide. Suggest, in terms of structure, why the oxide has a high melting point whereas the chloride has a low boiling point.

(b(i))[2]

Element A is in the same period as silicon. Element A reacts with dilute nitric acid to form a nitrate. This nitrate breaks down on heating to form an oxide. Write an equation for the decomposition of the nitrate.

(b(ii))[1]

The oxide of element A has a high melting point. Suggest the structure and bonding present in the oxide of A.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Relative atomic mass is calculated from isotopic abundances: $(28\times0.922)+(29\times0.047)+(30\times0.031)=28.11$

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