very-high Equation balancing (2-3 marks): Given a starting alkane and one product, deduce the other product using atom conservation.
high Bromine water test (2 marks): Describe the test, state the observation (orange → colourless) and conclusion (alkene present).
high Industrial reasons (2 marks): Explain the economic reason — converting low-value heavy fractions into high-value petrol and alkenes.
medium Higher tier — conditions (2 marks): Thermal = high T+P, catalytic = lower T+P + zeolite catalyst.
Edexcel 1CH0: Examined in Paper 2 (1CH0/2). Thermal and catalytic cracking are both tested in Edexcel 1CH0 — you must know conditions and products. In Edexcel-style questions, the command word "Suggest" appears frequently — use your chemistry knowledge to apply to an unfamiliar context.
This exam focus covers Exam Focus: Cracking within Cracking (HT) for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Cracking (HT) in Organic Chemistry for GCSE Chemistry with 24 exam-style questions and 15 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 12 of 14 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
Practice questions for Cracking (HT)
What is cracking in chemistry?
Describe the conditions used in thermal cracking and state the types of product formed.