Skip to content
    Chemistry A-Level

    standard conditions

    What standard conditions means in Chemistry A-Level, as defined for AQA, OCR.

    Definitions of standard conditions

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain standard conditions in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: OCR

    The agreed reference conditions of 100 kPa and a stated temperature, conventionally 298 K (25 °C), used so that enthalpy values can be compared between reactions.
    OCR · Enthalpy changes
    298 K, a solution concentration of 1 mol dm⁻³ for each aqueous species, and a gas pressure of 100 kPa (1 bar) for any gaseous species.
    OCR · Redox and electrode potentials
    Values are quoted at 298 K with every solution at 1.00 mol dm⁻³ and every gas at 100 kPa.
    AQA · Electrode potentials and cells (A-level only) (study guide)
    Using 1.00 mol dm⁻³ solutions at 298 K so the value may be quoted as standard.
    AQA · Electrode potentials and cells (A-level only) (study guide)

    Topics that use standard conditions

    Related terms

    Using standard conditions in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Chemistry questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Chemistry A-Level terms