Waec Chemistry Exam (2025/2026): Full List Of Highly Repeated Topics & Past Questions
WAEC Chemistry can seem difficult, especially with complex equations and practicals. But the truth is — WAEC repeats many Chemistry questions, and once you know the right topics and how to answer, scoring becomes easy.
Success in Chemistry = Mastering Past Questions + Repeated Topics
This guide will help you:
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Focus on highly repeated Chemistry topics
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Practice actual WAEC past questions
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Understand exam patterns and how to study effectively
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Prepare for both theory, objective, and practical papers
Most Repeated Topics in WAEC Chemistry
Here is a breakdown of the most frequently tested Chemistry topics over the years:
Topic | Why It Repeats |
---|---|
Atomic Structure & Periodic Table | Foundation of Chemistry |
Chemical Bonds & Bonding | Appears in both theory and objectives |
Acids, Bases, and Salts | Essential and always repeated |
Chemical Equations & Reactions | WAEC favorite in both papers |
Gas Laws & Calculations | Frequently appears with numerical problems |
Separation Techniques | Simple topic but always tested |
Electrolysis | Shows up in theory and practicals |
Organic Chemistry (Alkanes, etc.) | Appears almost every year |
Water & Solubility | Tested in multiple ways |
Stoichiometry & Mole Concept | WAEC’s go-to for calculations |
Redox Reactions | Always in both theory and obj |
Rate of Reaction & Energy Changes | Regular in structured questions |
Chemical Industry (Ammonia, etc.) | Common in applied chemistry questions |
Periodic Trends & Groups | Appears in multiple-choice and theory |
Sample WAEC Chemistry Past Questions (with Answers)
Here are questions taken directly from past WAEC papers, based on the repeated topics:
1. Atomic Structure
Question: What is the atomic number of an element with 11 protons and 12 neutrons?
(WAEC June 2023)
Answer:
Atomic number = number of protons = 11
2. Acids, Bases & Salts
Question: Define a base and give one example.
(WAEC June 2022)
Answer:
A base is a substance that accepts protons or donates hydroxide ions.
Example: Sodium hydroxide (NaOH)
3. Gas Laws
Question: State Boyle’s Law and write its mathematical expression.
(WAEC June 2021)
Answer:
Boyle’s Law: At constant temperature, the pressure of a gas is inversely proportional to its volume.
Formula: P₁V₁ = P₂V₂
4. Electrolysis
Question: Name the products formed during the electrolysis of brine.
(WAEC June 2020)
Answer:
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At anode: Chlorine gas
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At cathode: Hydrogen gas
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In solution: Sodium hydroxide
5. Organic Chemistry
Question: Name the first four members of the alkanes.
(WAEC June 2021)
Answer:
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Methane
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Ethane
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Propane
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Butane
6. Stoichiometry
Question: Calculate the number of moles in 22g of CO₂ (Molar mass = 44g/mol).
(WAEC June 2023)
Answer:
Moles = Mass ÷ Molar Mass = 22 ÷ 44 = 0.5 moles
WAEC Chemistry Practicals: What to Expect
WAEC Paper 3 (practical) usually includes:
Section | Focus |
---|---|
Titration | Acid-base reactions and calculations |
Qualitative Analysis | Test for cations, anions, gases |
Simple Experiments | Reaction rates, solubility tests, etc. |
🧠 Practice identifying unknown substances based on their reactions with reagents.
How to Prepare Effectively for WAEC Chemistry
Follow these smart steps:
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Start with the most repeated topics
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Practice past questions by topic
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Use a formula sheet for calculations
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Memorize key definitions and examples
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Solve numerical problems daily
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Use WAEC practical pasts for revision
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Study diagrams: lab apparatus, bonds, periodic table trends
WAEC Chemistry Grading System
Grade | Score (%) | Meaning |
---|---|---|
A1 | 75–100 | Excellent |
B2 | 70–74 | Very Good |
B3 | 65–69 | Good |
C4 – C6 | 50–64 | Credit |
D7 – E8 | 40–49 | Pass |
F9 | 0–39 | Fail |
💡 Tip: Always show full workings in calculations — WAEC awards method marks even if your final answer is wrong.
WAEC Chemistry FAQs
Q: Does WAEC repeat Chemistry questions?
Yes! WAEC repeats topics and styles, especially in obj and theory sections.
Q: Is Chemistry theory more difficult than practical?
Not really — both are manageable with practice. Practical is often easier if you've revised.
Q: What should I memorize for Chemistry exams?
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Formulas
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Valencies
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Periodic table groups
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Common reagents and reactions
Q: How many papers are in WAEC Chemistry?
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Paper 1: Objective (50 questions)
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Paper 2: Theory
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Paper 3: Practical
Final Tips
WAEC Chemistry may seem tough, but with the right focus and preparation, it's easy to score A1.
Focus on repeated topics, solve past questions, revise formulas, and practice your practicals.
If you follow this guide and practice smartly, your A1 is within reach.