🎯 Common Question Types:
- Explain the low melting/boiling point of a simple molecular substance (2 marks)
- Explain why it does not conduct electricity (2 marks)
- Compare boiling points of two simple molecules of different sizes (2 marks)
- Identify structure type from properties (1 mark)
📝 Key Command Words:
- Explain: Reference weak intermolecular forces, little energy needed to overcome them
- Compare: Bigger molecule = more intermolecular forces = higher melting point
- Identify: Low MP + no conduction = simple molecular structure
- Describe: Strong bonds within molecules, weak forces between molecules
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Saying "weak covalent bonds" cause the low melting point — NEVER write this
- Forgetting that the molecules remain intact when melting/boiling
- Saying simple molecules "have no bonds" — they have covalent bonds, just not between molecules
- Comparing simple molecules to ionic compounds without reference to the type of force
This exam tips covers Exam Tips for Simple Molecules within Simple Molecules for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Simple Molecules in Bonding & Structure for GCSE Chemistry with 20 exam-style questions and 21 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 10 of 11 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
Practice questions for Simple Molecules
Which type of force holds simple molecules together as a substance?
Explain why chlorine (Cl2) has a low boiling point.
Quick recall flashcards
What does molecular formula show?
Number and type of atoms in one molecule (e.g., H₂O, CO₂, CH₄)
What are intermolecular forces?
Weak forces of attraction between different molecules