Past Paper Exam
2.2.1 Subatomic Particles
IGCSE Chemistry (0620) • Papers 2, 3 & 4 Style Questions
Exam Structure
5
Section A: Tables
5
Section B: Structure
5
Section C: Deflection
Section A: Table Completion & Calculations
Q1table
Complete the table for the properties of subatomic particles
Q2calculation
An atom has an atomic number of 17 and a mass number of 35. Complete the table
Q3definition
Define the term "isotope"
Q4calculation
Calculate the number of protons, neutrons and electrons in ²³Na⁺
Q5explanation
Chlorine has two main isotopes: ³⁵Cl and ³⁷Cl. Explain why they have the same chemical properties
Section B: Atomic Structure
Q6structure
Where are neutrons located in an atom?
Q7explanation
Why is an atom electrically neutral?
Q8explanation
Explain why an electron has negligible mass
Q9explanation
What is the relative charge of a neutron? Explain why
Q10calculation
State the relative mass and relative charge of the nucleus of a helium atom (⁴He)
Section C: Particle Deflection
Q11diagram
A beam containing protons, neutrons and electrons passes between two charged plates. Draw the paths of each particle
Q12explanation
Explain why neutrons are not deflected when passing between charged plates
Q13explanation
Explain why electrons are deflected more than protons in the same electric field
Q14application
A student suggests using a magnetic field instead of an electric field to deflect the beam. Would neutrons be deflected? Explain
Q15historical
In an early model of the atom, J.J. Thomson used cathode ray tubes to discover electrons. Explain how the deflection of cathode rays proved they were negatively charged
⚠️ Top Exam Tips
- •Always include units in calculations (especially for mass and charge)
- •Use the correct terminology: "nucleus" not "middle", "negligible" not "very small"
- •For deflection questions: Remember that electrons deflect MORE than protons due to lower mass
- •Common mistake: Saying isotopes have "different mass" instead of "different number of neutrons"
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