This definitions covers Key Definitions within Cracking (HT) for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Cracking (HT) in Organic Chemistry for GCSE Chemistry with 24 exam-style questions and 0 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 9 of 14 in this topic. Make sure you can use the exact wording confidently, because definition marks are often lost through vague language.
Topic position
Section 9 of 14
Practice
24 questions
Recall
0 flashcards
📖 Key Definitions
Cracking: A chemical process in which large hydrocarbon molecules are broken down into smaller, more useful molecules (including alkenes) using heat and/or a catalyst. It is a thermal decomposition reaction.
Thermal decomposition: The breakdown of a chemical compound using heat alone, without any other reactants.
Catalyst (zeolite): In catalytic cracking, zeolite is used to lower the activation energy so cracking can occur at lower temperatures and pressures, reducing energy costs.