AS and A-level Chemistry guidance about alkyl groups

In November 2024, the Royal Society of Chemistry published research that suggests alkyl groups are not inductively electron-releasing.

This research affects the following AQA specification areas of AS and A-level Chemistry (7404 and 7405):

• 3.3.4.2 Alkenes – Addition reactions of alkenes 
• 3.3.11.2 Amines – Base properties (A-level only) 

Mark schemes for questions that ask students to explain the relative stability of carbocations (3.3.4.2) or the base strength of amines (3.3.11.2) have followed the historically accepted approach. Because the research published calls this into question, here’s some guidance on what will need to change.

What happens now?
In the short term, mark schemes for questions set on these topics will still give credit to students who use the historically accepted approach. These mark schemes will be discussed in the usual way at standardising, and students will also get marks if they attempt to answer in light of the Royal Society of Chemistry’s research.

This means there’s no need for teachers to re-visit teaching for current candidates, and teachers can continue to teach the historically accepted approach for the life span of these specifications.

What will happen in the future?
Going forward, when the specifications are reformed, these two areas will be reviewed and updated. It’s at this point that teachers would naturally re-visit their teaching and schemes of work, so this feels like the best approach. We’ll be back in touch with schools and colleges with more advice and guidance at this time.

If you have any questions or need any support, please get in touch with us on gcsescience@aqa.org.uk or call 01483 477756.