IB past paper analysis

Chemistry SL
May 2026 · Paper 1 · TZ3

See what this paper tests, focus on the skills that carry the marks, and practise matched Exam Vault questions with AI marking.

Original Exam Vault questions with AI markscheme feedback for this topic.

Switch paper
  • 30questions
  • 55marks
  • 46question parts
  • 35micro-topics

What this paper tests

Mark distribution

  • Reactivity 2: How much, how fast and how far?36%
  • Structure 1: Models of the particulate nature of matter26%
  • Reactivity 3: What are the mechanisms of chemical change?16%
  • Structure 2: Models of bonding and structure9%
  • Structure 3: Classification of matter9%
  • Reactivity 1: What drives chemical reactions?4%

Hardest areas (by marks)

    Question types

    identify: 65%explain / justify: 20%find / solve: 7%show that / prove: 4%4%
    • identify65%
    • explain / justify20%
    • find / solve7%
    • show that / prove4%

    4% of parts are show / prove.

    View all Chemistry SL past papers →

    Questions in this paper

    Open a question to see what each part tests, how often that micro-topic comes up, and practise matched questions.

    Where to go next

    Good to know

    Can I download Chemistry SL May 2026 TZ3 Paper 1 here?

    No. The paper and its mark scheme belong to the IB and are not reproduced. This page gives the structure of every question (marks, command term, micro-topic, the skill tested), the exam analysis, and practice questions we wrote to test the same skills. Subscribers can also open our summary of how each part's marks are awarded.

    Which topics dominate May 2026 TZ3 Paper 1?

    Reactivity 2: How much, how fast and how far? 36% (typical 26%), Structure 1: Models of the particulate nature of matter 26% (typical 20%), Reactivity 3: What are the mechanisms of chemical change? 16% (typical 18%).

    How do I practise this paper without the paper?

    Press "Practise similar" on any question. We open questions matched by micro-topic, command term and mark range with model answers and AI marking, then bring you back here.

    Want to practise the skills from this paper?

    Open original Exam Vault questions matched by topic, marks and command term, with AI marking and step-by-step feedback.

    All Chemistry SL past papers