2022 JC2 H2 CHEM PRELIM P3 MS - Examiners Comments

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1

Catholic Junior College


JC2 Preliminary Examinations
Higher 2

CANDIDATE
NAME

CLASS 2T

CHEMISTRY 9729/03
Paper 3 Free Response 13 September 2022
2 hours
Candidates answer on the Question Paper.
Additional Materials: Data Booklet

READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS FIRST

Write your name and class on all the work you hand in.
Write in dark blue or black pen.
You may use an HB pencil for any diagrams or graphs.
For Examiner’s Use
Do not use staples, paper clips, glue or correction fluid.
Q1 /15

MARK SCHEME
Answer all questions in the spaces provided on the Question
Paper. If additional space is required, you should use the pages at
the end of this booklet. The question number must be clearly
Section
A
Q2

Q3
/21

/24
shown.

Section A & EXAMINER’S


Answer all the questions.
Section
B
Q4

OR
/20

COMMENTS
Section B Q5 /20
Answer one question.
TOTAL
80
The use of an approved scientific calculator is expected, where
appropriate.
A Data Booklet is provided.

At the end of examination, fasten all your work securely together.


The number of marks is given in brackets [ ] at the end of each question or part question.

This document consists of 28 printed pages

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022 [Turn over


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Section A
Answer all the questions in this section.
1 Chromium is a hard, steel-grey metal with a lustrous appearance. It is valued for its high
corrosion resistance and hardness and is commonly used to manufacture alloys such as
steel. Chromium plating is sometimes used to give a polished mirror finish to steel.
Chromium compounds are also often used as pigments, known as chrome yellow.

(a) The following sequence of reactions involving chromium illustrates many of the
characteristics properties of transition metals.

2+
chromium dilute H2SO4 [Cr(H2O)6] air [Cr(H2O)6]3+ NaOH(aq) grey-green
metal precipitate
blue solution green solution

NaOH(aq)

H2O2(aq) [Cr(OH)6]3─
orange dilute H2SO4 yellow
solution solution dark green solution

(i) Solutions of transition metals are frequently coloured. With reference to


[Cr(H2O)6]2+,explain fully why it forms a blue solution. [2]

In the presence of H2O ligands, the partially filled degenerate d-orbitals


.…………………………………………………………………………………
of Cr2+ ion are split into 2 groups of non-degenerate d orbitals with a
.…………………………………………………………………………………
small energy gap. In the presence of visible light, d electron in a d
.…………………………………………………………………………………
orbital of lower energy absorbs orange light and is promoted to the
.…………………………………………………………………………………
higher energy d* orbital (d-d* electronic transition).
.…………………………………………………………………………………

.…………………………………………………………………………………
The complementary colour (blue) which is not absorbed appears as the

colour of [Cr(H2O)6]2+ observed.


.…………………………………………………………………………………

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
Most students were only able to get the second mark for stating the correct
colour absorbed.
Common mistakes made are as follows:
• Missing keywords, eg ‘partially filled’ in the answer – note that if the d
orbitals are empty (eg Sc3+ ion) or fully filled (eg Cu+ ion), there is no d-
d* electronic transition (no colour observed) even if splitting of the d
orbitals takes place.
• Stating that the a d orbital of lower energy state is promoted instead of
a d electron in the orbital of lower energy.

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022


3

(ii) Suggest the identity of the grey-green precipitate formed in the reaction
between [Cr(H2O)6]3+ and aqueous sodium hydroxide.
With the aid of an equation, explain fully how it is formed. [2]
The grey-green precipitate is Cr(OH)3.
.…………………………………………………………………………………
[Cr(H O) ]3+ + 3OH─ → Cr(OH) + 6 H O
.…………………………………………………………………………………
2 6 3 2

When OH─ ions are added to [Cr(H2O)6]3+ solution, an


.…………………………………………………………………………………
precipitation/acid-base reaction occurs to form Cr(OH) .
3
.…………………………………………………………………………………
OR
The grey-green precipitate is Cr(OH)3(H2O)3.

[Cr(H2O)6]3+ + 3OH─ → Cr(OH)3(H2O)3 + 3 H2O

When OH─ ions are added to [Cr(H2O)6]3+ solution, a ligand


displacement reaction occurs to form Cr(OH)3(H2O)3.

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
Most students were able to state the correct identity of the precipitate.
Common mistakes made in the second mark are either giving an unbalanced
equation or stating Na as the final product (which is not possible), for example:
[Cr(H2O)6]3+ + 3NaOH → Cr(OH)3 + 3 Na + 6 H2O

1 (a) (iii) Chromium(III) ions can also react with iminodiacetate ions (tridentate ligand)
to form a chelating complex ion. Draw the structure of the complex ion,
showing the shape clearly.
[1]

O
-

NH O
O O
Cr III
O NH

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022 [Turn over


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Legend can also be accepted to represent ligand used.


EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question was very badly done. Most students left this part blank. Students
are reminded that if a negatively-charged ligand is used, the individual charge
is not shown in the structure of the complex, but is instead considered in the
overall charge of the complex, for instance, the following drawing is wrong:

(iv) Identify the species present in the yellow and orange solutions.
Hence write an equation to show the formation of the species in the orange
solution from that in the yellow solution. [2]
2─
Species present in yellow solution:CrO4
.…………………………………………………………………………………
2─
Species present in orange solution: Cr O
.…………………………………………………………………………………
2 7

2 CrO42─ + 2 H+ → Cr2O72─ + H2O


.…………………………………………………………………………………
EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question was very badly done. Many students just guessed and gave
random identities of the two solutions, which shows they do not understand
the chromium-containing species responsible for the two colours.

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022


5

1 (b) Draw a fully labelled diagram of the experimental set-up used to measure the
standard electrode potential of the Cr3+(aq)/Cr(s) half-cell, indicating the direction of
electron flow. [3]
High resistance voltmeter

Cr3+(aq)

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question was badly done.
Students were unable to identify cathode and the anode, and thus drew the
wrong direction of electron flow. In addition, there were many missing details
in the answers i.e. stating of standard conditions, labelling the electrodes
wrongly. Some students even drew an electrolytic cell diagram and showed
poor understanding of how standard electrode potentials are obtained.

(c) Chromium is electrolytically deposited on the cathode from a solution containing


Cr3+(aq) using inert electrodes.

Calculate the volume of oxygen, at room temperature and pressure, produced at the
anode when 1.00 kg of chromium is deposited on the cathode. [2]

1
[O]: H2O(l) → 2H+(aq) + 2 O2(g) + 2e─. (x3)
[R]: Cr3+(aq) + 3e─ → Cr(s) (x2)
3
Overall equation: 3H2O + 2Cr3+ → 6H+ + 2 O2 +2Cr
1000
Amount of chromium in 1.00 kg = = 19.2 mol
52.0
19.2 3
Amount of O2 produced = 2
×2
= 14.4 mol
Volume of O2 produced = 14.4 x 24
= 346 dm3 (to 3 s.f.)
EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
Most students were able obtain the correct overall equation and find the volume
of O2 produced. Common mistakes included forgetting to convert kg into g
when finding number of moles of Cr, using the ideal gas equation to solve this
question.

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022 [Turn over


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(d) Chrome yellow containing Na2CrO4, has been used for a long time as a yellow
pigment in oil paintings.
(i) Use the standard redox potentials below to explain why the yellow colour
changes when the painting is exposed to an atmosphere containing sulfur
dioxide.
SO42─ + 4H+ + 2e─ 2H2O + SO2 Eo = +0.17 V
2─ + ─ 3+
CrO4 + 8H + 3e Cr + 4H2O Eo = +1.33 V [2]

Ecello = Eredo – Eoxido


= +1.33 – (+0.17)
= +1.16 V
o
Ecell >0 (reaction is energetically favourable) and hence yellow
colour changes

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
Most students did not find the overall Ecello to determine if the reaction is
feasible. Common mistakes included explaining how the presence of SO2
changes the position of the equilibrium according to LCP.

1 (d) (ii) Suggest why this colour change takes a long time. [1]
o
Ecell tells us whether a reaction is spontaneous (thermodynamically
.…………………………………………………………………………………
feasible) but does not predict the rate of a chemical reaction.
(kinetically feasible);
.…………………………………………………………………………………
Reaction has a high activation energy; low concentrations of SO2 in
.…………………………………………………………………………………
atmosphere

[Total: 15]

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question was poorly done. A variety of answers were given, but students
failed to note that the presence of SO2 in the atmosphere is actually very low,
thus this reaction does not take place under standard conditions. In addition,
reactions which are energetically feasible, i.e. Ecello > 0 does not mean it may
proceed, as the activation energy of the reaction may be very high.

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022


7

2 (a) Tartaric acid is a white crystalline diprotic organic acid. It can be synthesised from
ethene in four steps.

Tartaric acid

Draw the structures of the intermediates, A, B and C, and give the required reagents
and conditions for each step of the conversion. [7]

A B C

cold, NaOH(aq), KMnO4


Step 1:……………………………………………………………………………………….

K2Cr2O7 in dilute H2SO4, heat with (immediate) distillation


Step 2:……………………………………………………………………………………….
HCN(aq), trace amount of NaCN(aq)/NaOH(aq), cold
Step 3:………………………………………………………………………………………..
dilute H2SO4, heat
Step 4:……………………………………………………………………………………….

EXAMINERS’ COMMENTS
With the molecular formula of compound B provided, it is pleasing to see that
most students can deduce this. However, a fair number used KMnO4 in Step 2
which is not accepted as it will oxidise the resultant molecule, ethanedioic acid
to carbon dioxide. In addition, it is important to state the acidifying agent (H2SO4)
or alkaline agent (NaOH) to remove ambiguity as other agents such as
hydrochloric acid would result in the latter being oxidised to chlorine gas.

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022 [Turn over


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2 (b) Salts of tartaric acid are known as tartrates or hydrogen tartrates. One of these salts,
potassium hydrogen tartrate, KC4H5O6, is a weak monobasic acid and is sparingly
soluble in water.

An experiment was conducted to determine the Ksp of the salt, KC4H5O6. 1.00 g of
the salt, KC4H5O6 was dissolved in a beaker containing 100 cm3 of water and was
stirred constantly for 15 minutes at constant temperature until a saturated solution
was produced.

20.0 cm3 of the filtered solution was titrated against 0.035 mol dm−3 NaOH, using
phenolphthalein as an indicator. The volume of NaOH needed for the indicator to
change colour is 12.50 cm3.

(i) Calculate the initial concentration of potassium hydrogen tartrate used in the
titration. [1]

12.50
Amt. of KC4H5O6 = 0.035 x
1000

= 4.375 x 10─4 mol


20.0
[KC4H5O6] = 4.375 x 10─4 ÷ 1000 = 0.0219 mol dm−3 (3 sf)

(ii) Hence, calculate the Ksp value of potassium hydrogen tartrate. [1]

Ksp = [K+][C4H5O6−] = (0.0219)2 = 4.79 x 10−4 mol2 dm‒6

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
Poorly answered question. It is worrying that most students that obtained an
incorrect answer is due to the assumption that all the 1.00 g of potassium salt
dissolved in water when is clearly stated it is sparingly soluble in the first
paragraph. Hence, back titration with NaOH was required.

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022


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(c) The van ‘t Hoff equation relates equilibrium constants to enthalpy (ΔH) and entropy
changes (ΔS) as follows:
ΔH ΔS
ln Ksp = ─ +
RT R
where R is the molar gas constant and T is measured is in Kelvin.
The titration in (b) was repeated at different temperatures and the following results
were obtained.

ln Ksp

1/T
2 (c) (i) Using the information provided, calculate ∆H and ∆S for the dissolution of
potassium hydrogen tartrate in water. [2]
𝚫𝐇 12+10
Gradient value = =| |
𝑹 0.0038−0
= 5789

ΔH = 5789 x 8.31 = +48110 J mol−1


= +48.1 kJ mol−1
𝚫𝐒
y-intercept value = 𝑹
= 12

ΔS = 12 x 8.31 = +99.7 J K−1 mol−1


(ii) Hence, predict the temperature at which potassium hydrogen tartrate
becomes soluble in water. [1]
ΔG = ΔH − TΔS = 0

T = ΔH / ΔS = 48110 / 99.7 = 483 K

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question demonstrates the poor mathematical interpretation of the
expression provided. To solve both thermodynamic constants, some students
were busy solving simultaneous questions when a simple conversion using
linear law was sufficient to obtain it.

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022 [Turn over


10

(d) At 800 K, nitrogen monoxide reacts with hydrogen as shown below in an enclosed
gas tank.
2H2(g) + 2NO(g) ⎯→ 2H2O(g) + N2(g)
rate = k(P𝐻2)(PNO)2
On the same axes, sketch suitable graphs on the same axes below to illustrate
clearly how the rate of reaction would vary when partial pressures of

(i) H2
(ii) and NO

is increased respectively. [1]

rate of reaction / atm s-1 NO

H2

0
partial pressure / atm

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question is poorly attempted due to overthinking on the students’ part.
Some left the axis blank while others were drawing equilibrium graphs of
concentration against time. It is important that candidates realise what is asked
in the question before presenting their answers.

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022


11

2 (e) Nitrogen dioxide, NO2, is an air pollutant produced from volcanic eruptions and
combustion of fossil fuels in automobile engines.

(i) Draw the dot-and-cross diagram for nitrogen dioxide, NO2, molecule stating its
shape and bond angle. [2]
Species Dot-and-cross diagram Shape and bond angle

bent
Shape: ……………...
NO2 x>120º
Bond angle: ………...
range of
values (121 º–
179 º)

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
Most candidates were able to draw a structure of NO2, albeit the central nitrogen
atoms has 9 electrons around it. It is important for candidates to check upon
drawing, especially for Period 2 elements, that it does not exceed 8 electrons
which on this occasion requires the formation of a dative covalent bond from N
to O.

(ii) A 1.00 dm3 gas cylinder is used to store 35.0 g of NO2 at 25º C. The gas
cylinder is fitted with a safety valve that will rupture when there is a great
difference between the internal pressure and the atmospheric pressure.
The gas cylinder fitted with a burst disc can withstand a pressure difference of
2500 kPa.

Calculate the pressure exerted by NO2 at 25º C in kPa. [1]


m
PV = RT
Mr

nRT
P= V

35.0
× 8.31 × 298
46.0
=
1.00 × 10-3

= 1 884 kPa

(iii) Assuming the atmospheric pressure is 101 kPa, calculate the maximum
internal pressure of the gas cylinder. [1]
Maximum pressure difference = Internal pressure – Atmospheric pressure

T = ΔH / ΔS = 481102500 = Internal
/ 99.7 = 483 correct– units]
pressure
K [1, with 101

Internal pressure = 2500 + 101

= 2601 kPa
9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022 [Turn over
12

2 (e) (iv) Hence, determine the maximum temperature that this gas cylinder can be
exposed to before the burst disc ruptures. [1]

PV = nRT

PV
T = nR

2601 × 103 × 1.00 × 10-3


= 35.0
8.31 ×
46.0

= 411 K

(f) A gas tank contains a mixture of NO2 and monoatomic gas A in the ratio of 4:1.
At 300 K, the total pressure of the gas mixture is 100 kPa.

(i) Given that the density of the gas mixture is 1638 g m−3, calculate the average
[1]
relative molecular mass of the mixture to 1 decimal place. [1]
ρRT 1638 × 8.31 × 300
Mr = P
= 100 000
= 40.8

(ii) Hence, calculate the Ar of monoatomic gas A and suggest its identity. [2]
T = ΔH / ΔS = 48110 / 99.7 = 483 K [1, with correct units]
Given that the mixture of NO2 and monoatomic gas A is in the ratio
of 4:1,

(0.8 x 46.0) + (0.2 x Ar of monoatomic gas A) = 40.8

Ar of A = 20.0

A is neon

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
Other than the handful of careless mistakes involving the conversion of units,
most students are able to solve these questions pretty well.

[Total: 21]

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022


13

3 This question is about nitrogen containing compounds.

(a) Nitrogen monoxide reacts with chlorine to form nitrosyl chloride, according to the
equation:
2NO(g) + Cl2(g) ⎯→ 2NOCl(g)

In an experiment, student A kept the amount of Cl2(g) in large excess while the initial
partial pressure of NO(g) was varied at constant temperature of 550 K.

The table below shows the experimental results obtained.

time / s PNO / atm (Rate / PNO) (Rate / (PNO)2)


/ s−1 / (atm −1 s−1)
0 0.917 1.033 × 10−4 1.126 × 10−4

1000 0.827 9.312 × 10−5 1.126 × 10−4

2000 0.753 8.486 × 10−5 1.127 × 10−4

3000 0.691 7.788 × 10−5 1.127 × 10−4

4000 0.638 7.190 × 10−5 1.127 × 10−4

(i) Suggest why the amount of Cl2(g) was kept in large excess. [1]

Since the amount of Cl2(g) was kept in large excess, the partial
.…………………………………………………………………………………
pressure of Cl2(g) remains relatively constant so that any change in rate
.…………………………………………………………………………………
is due to the changes in the partial pressure of NO(g) only.
.…………………………………………………………………………………
EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question requires students to see the reason behind keeping the amount of
Cl2(g) in large excess and hence link to how it affect the determination of the rate
of reaction. Many students were not able to be awarded full credit.

(ii) Define the term order of reaction. [1]

.…………………………………………………………………………………
The order of reaction with respect to a reactant is defined as the power
to which the concentration of a reactant is raised to in the
.…………………………………………………………………………………
experimentally - determined rate equation.
.…………………………………………………………………………………
EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This is a recall question that was not well attempted. Students were not able to
give all the keywords required.

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022 [Turn over


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(iii) Using the data from the table above, deduce the order of reaction with respect
to NO(g). [1]
Since Rate = k(PNO)2,
.…………………………………………………………………………………
Rate/(PNO)2 = k is constant throughout the reaction
.…………………………………………………………………………………
(and thus rate of reaction is directly proportional to (PNO)2), the reaction
is second order with respect to NO.
.…………………………………………………………………………………
EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question required students to see that Rate/(PNO)2 = k is constant throughout
the reaction and hence determine the order of reaction. Students were not able
to get full credit.
3 (a) (iv) In another experiment, the initial partial pressure of NO(g) was 4.2 atm and it
was reacted with Cl2(g) at a constant temperature of 550 K. The partial
pressure of Cl2(g) was recorded at time intervals of 30 seconds.

The data obtained are tabulated below.

time / s partial pressure time / s partial pressure of


of Cl2(g)/ atm Cl2(g)/ atm
0 0.78 300 0.49
30 0.76 330 0.46
60 0.72 360 0.44
90 0.70 390 0.42
120 0.66 420 0.39
150 0.63 450 0.38
180 0.59 480 0.36
210 0.57 510 0.34
240 0.54 540 0.33
270 0.52 570 0.32

Using the data but without plotting of any graph, deduce the order of reaction
with respect to Cl2(g). [1]

1st t1/2
= time taken for PCl2 to decrease from 0.78 atm to 0.39 atm
= 420 s

2nd t1/2
= time taken for PCl2 to decrease from 0.76 atm to 0.38 atm (or 0.66 → 0.33)
= 480 – 60
= 420 s

Since t1/2 is constant at 420s, the reaction is first order with respect to Cl2.

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question required students find the half life which was not well attempted.

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022


15

(v) Write the rate equation for the overall reaction. Hence, calculate the rate constant,
stating its units. [3]

Rate = k (PNO)2(PCl2)
Rate = k’ (PCl2) where k’ = k (PNO)2
ln2 ln2
t1/2 = 420 s = 2 = 2
k(PNO ) k(4.2)
k = 9.36 × 10−5 atm−2 s−1
EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question required students to determine the rate equation from the above
parts. And hence calculate with the units stated. Common mistakes includes
leaving the rate equation in terms of concentration instead of partial pressures
and some thought that the rate is s−1 but it should be atm s−1

3 (b) In another reaction, 2NO2(g) + 4CO(g) ⎯→ N2(g) + 4CO2(g), it was found that the
rate equation is rate = k[NO2]2.
A proposed mechanism for this reaction is shown.

Step 1 NO2(g) + NO2(g) ⎯→ 2NO(g) + O2(g) slow


Step 2 2NO(g) + O2(g) + 4CO(g) ⎯→ N2(g) + 4CO2(g) fast

Explain whether it is consistent with the established rate equation. [1]

…………………………..……………………………………………………………
The mechanism is consistent with the established rate equation. One
molecule of NO2 reacts with one molecule of NO2 in the slow rate determining
step whereas rate equation shows 2 moles of NO2 reacting in the slow rate
.………………………………………………………………………………………
determining step.
…………………………..……………………………………………………………
EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question required students to state the correlation of the number of
reactants in the slow step with the rate equation. This question is fairly well
attempted.

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022 [Turn over


16

(c) Tryptophan metabolism plays an important role in the mechanisms associated with
the gut-brain axis. At least 90% of human intake of tryptophan is converted to
kynurenine for further metabolism via a catalyst.

(i) Explain how the activation energy of a reaction is affected by the presence of
a catalyst, and with an appropriate sketch of a Maxwell–Boltzmann distribution
curve, explain how a catalyst increases the rate of reaction. [3]

Number of
reactant
particles with No. of particles with energy ≥ Ea’
energy E
No. of particles with energy ≥ Ea

0 Energy, E
Ea' Ea

…………………………..……………………………………………………………
The catalyst lowers the activation energy of the reaction by providing an
alternative pathway for the reaction to occur.
.………………………………………………………………………………………
With a lower activation energy, according to the Maxwell–Boltzmann
distribution, there will be a higher proportion of reactants with energy greater
or equal to this lower activation energy, Ea’. Thus, there is higher frequency
…………………………..……………………………………………………………
of effective collisions between reactants since they possess sufficient energy
for reaction. Therefore, the rate of reaction increases.
.………………………………………………………………………………………

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This is recall question on the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution curve. However,
this was not well attempted with many keywords or marking points missed hence
not given full credit.
Common mistakes includes the wrong Maxwell-Boltzmann curve, the lack of
keywords like “frequency of effective collisions”.

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17

3 (c) (ii) Kynurenine has the molecular formula C10H12N2O3. When dissolved, an
aqueous solution of kynurenine is almost neutral and maintains its pH upon
addition of small amounts of aqueous sodium hydroxide or hydrochloric acid.
Addition of this solution to aqueous 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine causes an
orange precipitate to form.

Kynurenine reacts with NaBH4 to form compound L, C10H14N2O3. Heating L


with concentrated H2SO4 produces only M, C10H12N2O2. Heating M with
acidified KMnO4 under reflux results in the formation of compound N, C3H5NO4
and anthranilic acid.

The molecular structure of anthranilic acid is as shown below.

Reaction of N with LiAlH4 in dry ether produces compound O, C3H9NO2.


A solution of O turns litmus paper blue.

Suggest possible structures for L, M, N, O and kynurenine. For each reaction,


state the type of reaction described and explain what the information tells you
about the functional groups present in each compound. [13]

INFORMATION DEDUCTION
Kynurenine has the molecular formula C:H is approximately 1:1. It contains a
C10H12N2O3 benzene ring
When dissolved, an aqueous solution of
kynurenine is almost neutral
Kynurenine maintained its pH upon addition It functions as a buffer.
of small amounts of aqueous sodium
hydroxide or hydrochloric acid
Addition of the kynurenine to aqueous Presence of carbonyl group
2,4-DNPH caused an orange precipitate to Condensation reaction.
form.

Kynurenine reacts with NaBH4 to form Reduction of ketone group in kynurenine.


compound L, C10H14N2O3
Heating L with concentrated H2SO4 Elimination of H and OH groups from L to
produces only M, C10H12N2O2. form alkene in M. Indicate the presence of
–OH group on L.
Heating M with acidified KMnO4 under reflux Oxidative cleavage of C=C bond occurred
results in the formation of compound N, as 2 molecules were obtained
C3H5NO4 and anthranilic acid
Reaction of N with LiAlH4 in dry ether Reduction of carboxylic acid group in N.
produces compound O, C3H9NO2. A solution
of O turns litmus blue.

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022 [Turn over


18

HO2C CO2H HOH2C CH2OH


CH CH

NH2 NH2
N O

H2N CO2H H2N CO2H


CH CH

H C HO CH2
C H CH
NH2 NH2

M L

[Total: 24]

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This is an elucidation question that requires students to use the information to
explain the type of reaction and functional group present. And hence deduce the
structures.
Many students were only able to achieve partial credits.
Some of the common mistakes includes:
- deduction of amide groups in kynurenine,
- identification of type of reaction when L is reacted with concentrated H2SO4 as
hydrolysis

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022


Section B
Answer one question from this section.

4 An anaesthetic is a drug used to induce a temporary loss of sensation or awareness. They


may be classified as general anaesthetics that result in a reversible loss of consciousness,
or local anaesthetics which cause a reversible loss of sensation for a limited region of the
body without necessarily affecting consciousness.

(a) Procaine, one of the first injectable local anaesthetic used during surgery has the
following structure:

(i) State the oxidation state of C1 in Procaine. [1]


0
.…………………………………………………………………………………

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question was badly done. Many different values were given.

(ii) Procaine can be made by the following reaction scheme:

State the reagents and conditions used for steps 1, 2, 3 and 4. Draw the structure
of intermediate X. [5]
anhydrous PCl5 / SOCl2, r.t.p. OR anhydrous PCl3, heat
Step 1:……………………………………………………………………………………….

HOCH2CH2Cl, r.t.p.
Step 2:……………………………………………………………………………………….

1) Sn, conc. HCl, heat under reflux; 2) NaOH(aq)


Step 3:………………………………………………………………………………………..

NH(CH2CH3)2, heat under reflux


Step 4:……………………………………………………………………………………….

NOTE: Step 3 and 4 are interchangeable

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20

Structure of intermediate X:

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question was badly done.
Common mistakes made are as follows:
• Step 1: stating Cl2 with anhydrous FeCl3 (this is used for electrophilic
substitution of Cl+ onto the benzene ring) or Cl2 with uv light (this is for
free radical substitution of an alkane/alkyl group which is not present in
the starting compound).
• Step 2: stating HOCH2CH2Cl with conc H2SO4 and heat, which will lead to
the dehydration of the alcohol (to form an alkene). Note that acyl chloride
will react readily with an alcohol to form an ester, no catalyst is needed.
• Step 3: using LiAlH4 and dry ether to reduce nitrobenzene to phenylamine
which is not possible as an azo compound is formed instead (refer to
Nitrogen Compounds lecture notes Pg 17-11).
• Step 4: giving conc NH3 as the reactant will not lead to the structure of
Procaine.

4 (a) (iii) One molecule of Procaine contains two nitrogen atoms, both of which can
act as a base by accepting a proton. On the diagram below, circle the nitrogen
atom which will be a stronger base. Explain your reasoning. [2]

The alkyl groups attached to the N atom are electron-donating groups,


.…………………………………………………………………………………
hence making the lone pair of electrons on the N atom more available to
accept a proton. OR
.…………………………………………………………………………………
The lone pair of electrons on the N atom of phenylamine can be delocalised
the  electron system of benzene ring, thus making the lone pair of
.…………………………………………………………………………………
into
electrons less available to accept a proton
.…………………………………………………………………………………

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21

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question was well done. Many students were able to identify the correct
nitrogen atom and give the correct explanation.
A small minority of student mentioned ‘negative charge on nitrogen atom’ or
‘stabilising the negative ion’ and was penalised, because the nitrogen atom will
only carry a positive charge (conjugate acid) after accepting a proton.

4 (a) (iv) Procaine undergoes hydrolysis rapidly in the small intestines where the pH is
about 9. Give the structural formulae of the products obtained from the
hydrolysis under such conditions. [2]

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
Most students were able to draw the first structure correctly. However, many
students mistakenly thought that the alcohol will react with OH‒ ions as well
and gave the following wrong product:

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22

(b) Prilocaine, an amide-based local anaesthetic, is commonly used in dentistry.


Prilocaine is synthesised when the following substituted acyl chloride undergoes a
condensation (addition-elimination) reaction with 2-methylphenylamine.

The reaction above takes place in three steps.

The first step involves the nucleophilic addition of 2-methylphenylamine to the


substituted acyl chloride to form the following dipolar ion as an intermediate.

In the second step, the nitrogen atom on another molecule of 2-methylphenylamine


acts as a base and accepts a proton from the dipolar ion intermediate.

In the final step, the C=O bond of the amide bond is restored when the chlorine atom
leaves as a chloride ion.

With reference to the information provided above, suggest a three-step mechanism


for the formation of Prilocaine.

You may wish to represent the substituted acyl chloride as .


Show all partial charges and curly arrows clearly in your answer. [3]
9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022
23

Step 1:

Step 2

Step 3

EXAMINERS’ COMMENTS
This question was mostly left blank.
For the few students who attempted, the curly arrows were randomly positioned.
Students are reminded of the need to read the information given in the question
carefully which will help them to structure their answers.

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022 [Turn over


24

4 (c) Limiting the intake of certain essential nutrients, either proteins or amino acids for
several days before surgery may reduce the risk of serious surgical complications
such as heart attack or stroke.

Histidine is an essential amino acid utilised by the body to develop and maintain
healthy tissues. The structure of the fully protonated form of histidine is given below.

The pKa values of the respective functional groups attached to the α-carbon in
histidine are given in the following table.

functional group pKa value

1.82

6.00

9.17

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4 (c) (i) With reference to the given pKa values, suggest the major species present in
solutions of histidine with the following pH values:

• pH 4
• pH 8
• pH 12 [3]

pH value major species

12

EXAMINERS’ COMMENTS
This question was badly done. Only a very small minority of students scored the
full three marks.

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26

4 (c) (ii) Histidine is also important for digestion in human body as it helps to produce
gastric juices in the stomach.

A stomach juice sample is extracted from a patient to determine the


concentration of histidine by titrating it with aqueous sodium hydroxide.

Draw a labelled titration curve of pH against amount of NaOH(aq) added when


one mole of fully protonated histidine is titrated with NaOH(aq)

You should clearly label the following points in your titration curve.
• amounts of NaOH required at each equivalence point
• pH values at the points of maximum buffer capacity [3]

EXAMINERS’ COMMENTS
This question was mostly left blank.
For the few students who attempted to sketch a graph, the common mistakes
observed were:
• showing only one or two equivalence points
• labelling the y-axis as volume of NaOH and hence the wrong values were
stated
• the pH values of at the three maximum buffer capacities were pH 4, 8
and 12, which were the values in the question in (c)(i) and is totally
irrelevant

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27

4 (c) (iii) Histidine can be converted to histamine by an enzyme called histidine


decarboxylase. The enzyme undergoes partial hydrolysis to produce the
following fragments:

• ala-cys-phe
• lys-asp-asp-gly
• phe-arg-lys
• ala-cys-phe-phe-arg-lys
• asp-asp-gly

Give the sequence of the nine amino acid residues of the enzyme. [1]

Reasoning:
ala-cys-phe
lys-asp-asp-gly
ala-cys-phe-phe-arg-lys
phe-arg-lys
asp-asp-gly

The sequence of the enzyme is ala-cys-phe-phe-arg-lys-asp-asp-gly

[Total: 20]

EXAMINERS’ COMMENTS
This question was well-done. Many students scored the full credit here.

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28

5 Wittig reaction is a very important tool in organic chemistry and is particularly useful for
the synthesis of alkenes, as the double bond forms specifically at the location of the
original aldehyde or ketone. The Wittig reagent used is triphenyl phosphonium ylide,
Ph3P=CR’’R’’’, where the phenyl group is abbreviated as ‘Ph’.

phosphonium ylide
where R,R’,R’’,R’’’ = H or alkyl

(a) Draw the structures of the carbonyl compound and the specific phosphonium ylide
that can be used to produce the following organic compound.

[2]

phosphonium ylide

OR

phosphonium ylide

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question was done quite well. Most students were able to recognise the
.…………………………………………………………………………………
pattern and deduce the carbonyl compound and the phosphonium ylide to form
the organic compound. Some even gave both the alternative answers.
.…………………………………………………………………………………

.…………………………………………………………………………………

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5 (b) The synthesis of methylpropene via the Wittig reaction is shown below.

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

(i) Name the type of reaction that occurs in step 1. [1]

Nucleophilic substitution
.…………………………………………………………………………………

(ii) State the role of butyl lithium, C4H9Li, in step 2. [1]


C4H9Li acts as a base/ proton acceptor
.…………………………………………………………………………………

(iii) Methylpropene undergoes a reaction with hydrogen bromide.


Suggest a mechanism for this reaction and use it to predict the major product.
Explain your reasoning. [3]

Electrophilic addition

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
Most students were able to get (i) correct, but did not manage to identify that
butyl lithium functioned as a Bronsted-Lowry base as it has removed a proton
from Ph3PCH3 in order to form the phosphonium ylide in (ii). Some students
showed electrophilic addition mechanism of propene with HBr, instead of
methylpropene with HBr. Most students managed to get the mechanism
correct.

(iv) Describe and explain the trend in the thermal stability of the hydrogen halides
HCl, HBr and HI. Include an equation for the thermal decomposition reaction
in your answer. [3]

Hydrogen halides decompose on heating to give hydrogen gas and halogens.


.…………………………………………………………………………………
2HX → H2 + X2 where X is a halogen. [1]
.…………………………………………………………………………………
The thermal stability decreases down from HCl, HBr and HI. [1]
.…………………………………………………………………………………
Down the group, as the size of the halogen atom increases.
.…………………………………………………………………………………
The H–X bond length increases and is weaker.
.…………………………………………………………………………………
Hence, the bond energy of H–X decreases, and thermal stability decreases
.…………………………………………………………………………………
down the group. [1]

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EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question was poorly done. Common mistakes included stating that HX is
an ionic compound, and explaining that the size of the halide ion increases
down the group. Many students also failed to explain that as the size of the
halogen atoms increased, the effectiveness of orbital overlap decreases/ bond
length increases and thus bond strength weakens down the group. Many
students also gave the wrong equation for the thermal decomposition of the
hydrogen halides; H‒X → H+ + X‒

(b) (v) Hence, by stating relevant information from the Data Booklet, suggest how
the rate of the reaction will change in (b)(iii) when hydrogen chloride is used
instead of hydrogen bromide. [2]
Bond energy H‒Cl : 431 kJ mol‒1
.…………………………………………………………………………………
Bond energy H‒Br: 366 kJmol‒1
.…………………………………………………………………………………
When hydrogen halides react with alkenes, the H‒X bond has to be broken.
Since the breaking of H‒X bond takes place in the slow, rate‒
.…………………………………………………………………………………
determining step, the stronger H‒X bond, the slower the reaction will be.
Thus rate of reaction will be slower when hydrogen chloride is used
.…………………………………………………………………………………
instead of hydrogen bromide.

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question was done well. Many students were able to score the full marks
for this section.

5 (c) Wittig reaction is also used in the industry to synthesise -carotene. -carotene is a
food colouring that can be extracted from the pigmentation found in red-orange
plants and fruits such as carrots. It can be synthesised using excess of an aldehyde
and 2 molecules of phosphonium ylide.

-carotene

(i) The phosphonium ylide used to synthesise -carotene is given below, where
Ph represents a phenyl group,

Suggest the structure of the aldehyde that can be used to produce


-carotene. [1]

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31

Working backwards,

Structure of the aldehyde is:

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question was poorly done. Many students did not pick out information
from the question, that 2 molecules of phosphonium ylide was used, and thus
drew the wrong structure of the aldehyde.

5 (d) The long conjugated hydrocarbon chain in -carotene leads to its intense orange
colour.

A conjugated system contains a series of alternating single and double bonds, in


which there is a p orbital on each atom and electrons are delocalised in the molecule.
This generally lowers the overall energy of the molecule and increases its stability.

The table below contains information about cyclohexene and naphthalene.


Cyclohexene contains one carbon-carbon double bond and shows chemical
properties common to other alkenes. Napthalene, C10H8, shows chemical properties
common to aromatic compounds.

alkene conditions for product calculated


reaction with enthalpy change
hydrogen of
hydrogenation/
kJmol−1

room
temperature, ‒118
nickel catalyst
cyclohexene cyclohexane

?

naphthalene decalin

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32

(i) Calculate the enthalpy change of hydrogenation of naphthalene. [1]


ΔH = 5 x (‒118) = ‒590 kJmol‒1
.…………………………………………………………………………………

(ii) The actual value for the enthalpy change of complete hydrogenation of
naphthalene is ‒335 kJ mol-1. Explain why this is so, in terms of hybridisation
and interactions of the orbitals in the carbon atoms within a naphthalene
molecule. [2]
Each carbon atom is sp2 hybridised and there is an unhybridised p
.…………………………………………………………………………………
orbital on each carbon atom which overlaps sideways to form a
.…………………………………………………………………………………
resonance structure, giving the molecule extra stability.
.…………………………………………………………………………………
EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question was poorly done. Many students did not identify the type of
.…………………………………………………………………………………
hybridisation that C in naphthalene had, and the reason why it is more stable,
when the question specifically asked for it. Moreover, the clue, “A conjugated
system contains a series of alternating single and double bonds, in which there
is a p orbital on each atom and electrons are delocalised in the molecule.” has
been also given in the question, which students could have included in their
answer.

5 (e) Dyes possess colour as they have an extended conjugated system.


Compound F is used in the manufacture of dyes and paints. It can be synthesised
from methylbenzene in three steps as shown.

(i) Suggest structures for the organic compounds D and E. [2]

D E

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33

(ii) Suggest reagents and conditions for each of the steps 1 and 2. [2]
o
concentrated HNO3, concentrated H2SO4, 30 C
Step 1:………………………………………………………………………………………..

(1) Sn, concentrated HCl, heat under reflux; (2) aqueous NaOH
Step 2:………………………………………………………………………………………..

[Total: 20]

EXAMINER’S COMMENTS
This question was mostly well attempted. Most students were able to identify
the organic compounds D and E, and state the correct reagents and conditions
required.

9729/03/CJC JC2 Preliminary Examination 2022 [Turn over

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