The chemistry of iron | 16–18 years

Use this resource when teaching transition metal chemistry and equilibria to provide your A-level (or equivalent) learners with practice questions spanning multiple topics. The four tasks cover complex ion bonding, ligand exchange, half-cell equations, redox potentials and oxidation states. Learners will develop their understanding and confidence in applying their knowledge by answering questions on haemoglobin – an iron(II) complex ion – and the ligands it binds (eg oxygen and carbon monoxide).

Make cross-curricular links with biology and environmental chemistry and highlight the need for research and development in finding solutions to complex long-term health issues, such as carbon monoxide poisoning. Learners could also investigate this topic as an individual research project in qualifications such as the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate.