CAIE A Level Chemistry 9701 · Group 2
Nitrates of Group 2 metals decompose on heating to form the metal oxide, nitrogen dioxide and oxygen. The temperature needed for decomposition increases down the group.
Describe and explain the trend in the thermal stability of the nitrates of Group 2 elements down the group.
5 marks, so the mark scheme is looking for about 5 separate creditworthy points. Making the same point twice in different words earns it once.
Describe means: Say what happens or what something is like, in order and with detail. You are not being asked why. If there is data, quote it: name the trend, then give figures with units at the points where it changes.
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