The panel would suggest leaving much of question 1 alone, although it could stand to be condensed somewhat. As written, it tests the student’s fundamental understanding of K_b, buffers, and titration stoichiometry. One or more of the following additional questions might be added:

Sketch a titration curve for part (e) using the information from (b), (c), and (d).

and/or

Compare the base strength and give the rationale for strength based on the type of site and associated structure for one or two other more obscure bases, given their respective K_b’s.

Answer the following questions regarding light and its interactions with molecules, atoms, and ions.

1. The longest wavelength of light with enough energy to break the Cl-Cl bond in Cl₂(g) is 495 nm.

1. Calculate the frequency, in s^-1, of the light.

2. Calculate the energy, in J, of a photon of the light.

3. Calculate the minimum energy, in kJ mol^-1, of the Cl-Cl bond.

2. A certain line in the spectrum of atomic hydrogen is associated with the electronic transition in the H atom from the sixth energy level (n = 6) to the second energy level (n = 2).

1. Indicate whether the H atom emits energy or whether it absorbs energy during the transition. Justify your answer.

2. Calculate the wavelength, in nm, of the radiation associated with the spectral line.

3. Account for the observation that the amount of energy associated with the same electronic transition (n = 6 to n = 2) in the He⁺ ion is greater than that associated with the corresponding transition in the H atom.

(SOURCE: CEEB, 1999b, p. 43)

(NOTE: On the exam, students were asked to answer either this question or the next question concerning reaction rates, but not both.)

A question containing some of the information assessed in the original version of Question 2 but considerably extended might look like this. This question now relates to a chlorofluorocarbon compound known as CFC-12 or Freon-12.

Front Matter (R1-R2)

1. Introduction (1-2)

2. Overview of Advanced Study Programs in Chemistry in U.S. High Schools (3-10)

3. Quality and Content of the Learning Experience for Students (11-22)

4. Teachers and Teaching (23-27)

5. Outcomes of AP and IB Chemistry Courses (28-31)

6. Summary and Recommendations (32-34)

References (35-36)

Appendix A: Charge to the Content Panels from the Parent Committee (37-39)

Appendix B: Biographical Sketches of the Chemistry Panel Members (40-42)

Appendix C: Background Materials Provided to the Panel (43-45)

Appendix D: Suggested Modifications of Examination Questions (46-54)

Appendix E: Research Agenda for Advanced Studies in High School Chemistry (55-56)