JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry 2027/2028

Chemistry is the study of substances, their properties, how they combine, how they change, and how these changes can be used in everyday life.

When you study Chemistry, you learn about substances such as water, air, metals, acids, salts, gases and organic compounds. You also learn how different substances react with one another.

For example, when you study Chemistry, you may learn why iron rusts, how water is treated, how acids react with metals, how mixtures can be separated, and how useful substances are produced in industries.

The Chemistry syllabus aims to help candidates understand the basic principles and concepts in Chemistry, interpret scientific data, understand the relationship between Chemistry and other sciences, and apply Chemistry to industry and everyday life.

So, when you see the term Area of Concentration for Chemistry, it means the main Chemistry topics and areas you should study carefully for the examination.

Why Chemistry Is Important in JAMB UTME

Chemistry is an important subject for many students who want to study science, medicine, pharmacy, engineering, agriculture and other related courses.

For the JAMB UTME, you need to understand the Chemistry topics listed in the syllabus instead of reading random topics without a clear plan.

The syllabus contains topics ranging from separation of mixtures and chemical combination to atomic structure, acids and bases, electrolysis, organic compounds and Chemistry in industry.

If you have limited time to study, ask yourself this question: Would it be better to read every Chemistry topic you find, or to start with the topics listed in the syllabus?

I would advise you to start with the syllabus.

Read also: Chemistry JAMB Syllabus 2026/2027 Download PDF

The JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry can help you know the areas you need to study and arrange your reading in a better way.

The syllabus also gives objectives under the different topics. These objectives explain what candidates should be able to understand, calculate, identify, compare or apply after studying a topic.

So, don’t only look at the topic names. Pay attention to the objectives too.

JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry

The JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry 2027/2028 covers several important Chemistry topics. The first areas in the syllabus deal with separation of mixtures, chemical combination, kinetic theory, gas laws, atomic structure and chemical bonding.

These topics give you the basic knowledge you need before moving to other parts of Chemistry.

Separation of Mixtures and Chemical Combination

Separation of Mixtures

A mixture contains two or more substances that are physically combined. The Chemistry syllabus expects you to understand different ways of separating mixtures and purifying chemical substances.

You should study:

• Pure and impure substances
• Boiling and melting points
• Elements, compounds and mixtures
• Physical and chemical changes
• Evaporation
• Simple and fractional distillation
• Sublimation
• Filtration
• Crystallization
• Paper and column chromatography
• Magnetization
• Decantation

You should not only memorize the names of these separation methods. You should understand the principle behind each method and know when it can be used.

For example, if you have a mixture containing a solid and a liquid, the method used to separate them will depend on the properties of the substances involved.

The syllabus also expects you to identify the properties of the components of a mixture and apply the basic principles of separation in everyday life.

Chemical Combination and Stoichiometry

Chemical combination deals with how elements and substances combine.

This part includes:

• Law of definite proportions
• Law of multiple proportions
• Law of conservation of matter
• Gay Lussac’s law of combining volumes
• Avogadro’s law
• Chemical symbols
• Chemical formulae
• Chemical equations
• Relative atomic mass
• Mole concept
• Avogadro’s number

Stoichiometry is an area where you need to practise calculations.

The syllabus expects candidates to perform simple calculations involving chemical formulae, equations, chemical composition and the mole concept. You should also be able to deduce chemical laws from given expressions, statements or data and determine the stoichiometry of chemical reactions.

So, don’t just read this topic. Get a notebook and practise the calculations.

Kinetic Theory, Gas Laws, Atomic Structure and Bonding

The next part of the Area of Concentration for Chemistry covers the behaviour of matter, gases, atoms and chemical bonds.

Kinetic Theory of Matter and Gas Laws

The kinetic theory of matter explains matter in terms of the movement of particles.

You should study the changes of state, including:

• Melting
• Vaporization
• Boiling
• Freezing
• Condensation

You should understand these changes in terms of molecular motion and Brownian movement.

The syllabus also includes:

• Boyle’s law
• Charles’ law
• Graham’s law
• Dalton’s law of partial pressure
• Combined gas law
• Molar volume
• Atomicity of gases
• Ideal gas equation, PV = nRT
• Vapour density and relative molecular mass

You should be ready to interpret graphs and perform simple calculations using the gas laws and related equations.

When studying gas laws, practise the formulas with simple questions until you can use them without confusion.

Atomic Structure

Atomic structure is another important part of the Chemistry syllabus.

You should study atoms, molecules and ions and know the contributions of scientists such as Dalton, Millikan, Rutherford, Moseley, Thomson and Bohr.

You should also understand:

• Atomic structure
• Electron configuration
• Atomic number
• Mass number
• Isotopes
• Shapes of s and p orbitals

The syllabus says that specific examples should be drawn from elements with atomic numbers 1 to 20.

You should be able to calculate the number of protons, neutrons and electrons from atomic and mass numbers. You should also know how electrons are arranged in an atom and understand isotopy and simple calculations involving isotopes.

Periodic Table and Chemical Bonding

The periodic table is also part of this section.

You should understand the arrangement of elements and recognise families such as:

• Alkali metals
• Halogens
• Noble gases
• Transition metals

You should also study periodic properties such as ionization energy, ionic radii, electron affinity and electronegativity.

Chemical bonding covers:

• Electrovalency
• Covalency
• Hydrogen bonding
• Metallic bonding
• Coordinate bonds
• Van der Waals’ forces

You should understand how electron configuration affects the type of bond formed and how bonding affects the properties of compounds.

The syllabus also includes the shapes of simple molecules such as linear, non-linear, tetrahedral and pyramidal molecules.

If you understand electron arrangement, bonding becomes much easier to study.

So, when reading this section, don’t rush from one topic to another. Start with atoms and electron configuration, then move to the periodic table and finally study chemical bonding.

These topics form an important foundation for many of the Chemistry topics that come later in the syllabus.

Chemistry Area of Concentration: Air, Water and Solubility

The JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry 2027/2028 also includes Air, Water, Solubility and Environmental Pollution. These topics are connected to things you see around you every day.

You breathe air, drink water and use different substances that dissolve in water. You also see the effects of pollution in the environment.

So, don’t study these topics as if they are only textbook topics. Try to connect them with everyday life.

Air and Water

Composition of Air

The Chemistry syllabus teaches you that air is a mixture of different gases.

You should study the natural gaseous constituents of air, including:

• Nitrogen
• Oxygen
• Water vapour
• Carbon (IV) oxide
• Noble gases such as argon and neon

You should understand why air exists as a mixture and know some uses of its constituents. The syllabus also expects candidates to understand the principles involved in separating the components of air.

Make sure you know the main constituents of air and their uses.

You should also understand why the composition of air can vary in different environments.

Water

Water is another important topic under the Area of Concentration for Chemistry.

The syllabus covers water as a product of the combustion of hydrogen and its composition by volume. It also covers water as a solvent and the gases dissolved in water and their biological importance.

You should study:

• Hard water
• Soft water
• Temporary hardness
• Permanent hardness
• Methods of softening hard water
• Treatment of water for town supply
• Water of crystallization
• Efflorescence
• Deliquescence
• Hygroscopy

The syllabus expects you to distinguish between hard and soft water, identify the causes of hardness and describe methods used to remove hardness.

You should also understand the processes used to treat water for town supply.

When studying water hardness, don’t just memorize the terms temporary and permanent hardness. Learn what causes each type and how it can be removed.

Solubility and Solutions

Types of Solutions

Solubility deals with how substances dissolve in solvents.

The syllabus includes:

• Unsaturated solutions
• Saturated solutions
• Supersaturated solutions
• Solubility curves
• Solubility calculations

You should understand the differences between these types of solutions and how temperature affects solubility.

For example, an unsaturated solution can still dissolve more solute under the stated conditions, while a saturated solution contains the maximum amount of solute that can dissolve under those conditions.

The syllabus also expects candidates to interpret solubility curves and calculate the amount of solute that can dissolve in a given amount of solvent at a given temperature.

Spend time practising solubility calculations because the syllabus specifically includes simple calculations.

Solvents, Suspensions and Colloids

You should also study solvents used for fats, oils and paints and understand how such solvents can be used to remove stains.

The syllabus also covers true solutions, suspensions and colloids.

Examples of suspensions include Harmattan haze and water paints. Examples of colloids include fog, milk, aerosol spray, emulsion paints and rubber solution.

You should be able to distinguish between a true solution and a false solution and compare their properties.

Environmental Pollution

Environmental pollution is another important topic in the JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry.

Types and Sources of Pollution

The syllabus covers:

• Air pollution
• Water pollution
• Soil pollution

You should study the sources and effects of pollutants and how pollution can be controlled.

For air pollution, examples of pollutants listed in the syllabus include:

• Hydrogen sulphide, H₂S
• Carbon (II) oxide, CO
• Sulphur (IV) oxide, SO₂
• Oxides of nitrogen
• Chlorofluorocarbons
• Dust

For water pollution, you should know about sewage and oil pollution.

For soil pollution, the syllabus includes oil spillage and biodegradable and non-biodegradable pollutants.

Effects and Control of Pollution

You should understand how pollutants affect the environment.

The syllabus expects you to identify different pollutants, state their sources, classify them as biodegradable or non-biodegradable, explain their effects and identify methods of controlling environmental pollution.

Think about a simple example. If waste is dumped into a river, the water can become polluted. If oil enters the soil or water, it can also affect the environment.

When studying pollution, connect each pollutant with its source, effect and method of control.

This will make the topic easier to remember.

The topics under Air, Water, Solubility and Environmental Pollution may look simple, but they contain several definitions, differences and calculations. So, study them carefully and practise the areas where calculations are required.

Chemistry Area of Concentration: Acids, Bases, Redox and Electrolysis

Acids, bases, salts, oxidation and reduction are important parts of the JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry 2027/2028. Electrolysis is also included in this section.

These topics contain definitions, reactions, calculations and practical applications. So, don’t only memorize the meanings; try to understand what happens during each chemical reaction.

Acids, Bases and Salts

Properties of Acids and Bases

The Chemistry syllabus covers the general characteristics and properties of acids, bases and salts. It also includes acid-base indicators and the basicity of acids.

You should understand that an acid can be defined as a substance whose aqueous solution produces H₃O⁺ ions or as a proton donor.

Examples of naturally occurring organic acids listed in the syllabus include:

• Ethanoic acid
• Citric acid
• Tartaric acid

You should also study different types of salts, including:

• Normal salts
• Acidic salts
• Basic salts
• Double salts

The syllabus gives alums as an example of double salts.

Preparation of Salts and pH

You should know different methods of preparing salts.

These include preparation by:

• Neutralization
• Precipitation
• Action of acids on metals

You should also study oxides and trioxocarbonate (IV) salts.

Another important part is the pH and pOH scale. The syllabus specifically includes simple calculations involving pH and pOH.

You should also learn about acid-base indicators and know how to select an appropriate indicator.

Practise pH and pOH calculations instead of only reading examples in your textbook.

Acid-Base Titration and Salt Hydrolysis

Acid-base titration is also included in the Chemistry syllabus.

You should study titration curves and perform simple calculations based on the mole concept.

The syllabus also includes hydrolysis of salts, with examples such as:

• NH₄Cl
• AlCl₃
• Na₂CO₃
• CH₃COONa

You should understand how salt hydrolysis can produce acidic, basic or neutral solutions.

Oxidation and Reduction

Oxidation and reduction, often called redox, is another major area of the Chemistry syllabus.

Meaning of Oxidation and Reduction

The syllabus explains oxidation in terms of:

• Addition of oxygen
• Removal of hydrogen
• Transfer of electrons
• Increase in oxidation number

Reduction can be explained through:

• Removal of oxygen
• Addition of hydrogen
• Transfer of electrons
• Decrease in oxidation number

You should understand these different ways of identifying oxidation and reduction.

For example, when electrons are transferred during a reaction, you should be able to identify which substance is oxidized and which substance is reduced.

Oxidation Numbers and Redox Equations

You should learn how to calculate oxidation numbers and use them when balancing simple redox equations.

The syllabus expects candidates to:

• Identify different forms of oxidation and reduction
• Classify reactions as oxidation or reduction
• Balance redox equations
• Determine oxidation numbers
• Calculate electron transfer
• Identify oxidizing and reducing agents

You should also know how oxidation numbers are used in naming inorganic compounds.

If oxidation numbers confuse you at first, practise them with simple compounds before moving to redox equations.

Electrolysis

Electrolysis is another important Area of Concentration for Chemistry.

Electrolytes and Non-Electrolytes

You should understand the difference between electrolytes and non-electrolytes.

The syllabus also includes Faraday’s laws of electrolysis and calculations based on the mole of electrons.

You should also know how to select suitable electrodes for different electrolytes and identify the reactions that occur at the electrodes.

Electrolysis of Different Substances

The syllabus specifically includes the electrolysis of:

• Dilute H₂SO₄
• Aqueous CuSO₄
• CuCl₂ solution
• Dilute NaCl solution
• Concentrated NaCl solution
• Fused NaCl

You should understand the products formed at the electrodes and the chemical reactions that take place.

The factors that affect the discharge of ions at the electrodes are also included.

Do not simply memorize the products of electrolysis. Learn why particular ions are discharged at the electrodes.

Uses of Electrolysis

Electrolysis has several uses, and the syllabus expects you to know them.

These include:

• Purification of metals
• Production of aluminium
• Production of sodium
• Production of oxygen
• Production of chlorine
• Production of sodium hydroxide

Copper purification is given as an example of the use of electrolysis.

You should also study electrochemical cells, redox series, half-cell reactions and electrode potentials.

The syllabus only requires simple calculations for electrode potentials.

Corrosion and Protection of Metals

Corrosion is also included under electrochemistry.

You should understand corrosion as an electrolytic process and study ways of preventing iron from corroding.

The syllabus lists methods such as:

• Cathodic protection
• Painting
• Electroplating
• Coating with grease or oil

Think about an iron gate at home. If the gate is left exposed to air and moisture, corrosion can occur. Painting the gate can help protect the iron from direct contact with the environment.

This is a good example of how Chemistry connects with everyday life.

So, when studying Acids, Bases, Redox and Electrolysis, make sure you understand the definitions, reactions, calculations and practical applications listed in the syllabus.

Chemistry Area of Concentration: Energy, Rates and Equilibrium

Energy changes, rates of chemical reactions and chemical equilibrium are also part of the JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry 2027/2028.

These topics help you understand why some reactions release heat, why some reactions happen faster than others, and how reversible reactions behave.

Energy Changes

Heat Changes in Chemical Reactions

The Chemistry syllabus includes energy changes, written as ∆H, that occur during physical and chemical changes.

You should study heat changes that happen when substances dissolve in water or react with water. Examples listed in the syllabus include sodium, sodium hydroxide, potassium and ammonium chloride.

You should understand the difference between:

• Endothermic reactions, which have positive ∆H
• Exothermic reactions, which have negative ∆H

The syllabus also expects you to interpret graphical representations of heat changes.

Try to understand what happens to energy during a reaction instead of only memorizing the words endothermic and exothermic.

Entropy and Spontaneity

Entropy is also included.

The syllabus describes entropy as an order-disorder phenomenon. Simple examples include mixing gases and dissolving salts.

You should also study the spontaneity of reactions.

The syllabus includes:

∆G° = ∆H° – T∆S°

You should understand the basic conditions for spontaneity and equilibrium. It also expects candidates to solve simple problems using the relationship between ∆G°, ∆H° and T∆S°.

Rates of Chemical Reaction

The rate of a chemical reaction tells you how quickly a chemical change happens.

Factors That Affect Reaction Rate

The Chemistry syllabus includes several factors that can change the rate of a chemical reaction.

These include:

• Temperature
• Concentration
• Pressure for gaseous systems
• Surface area
• Catalysts
• Light for some reactions

Examples listed include the reaction between hydrochloric acid and sodium thiosulphate, hydrochloric acid and marble, the iodine clock reaction, and the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide or potassium chlorate in the presence or absence of manganese(IV) oxide.

Think about sugar. A smaller piece can dissolve faster than a large piece because more of its surface can come into contact with the water.

Read also:

• JAMB Recommended Textbooks for All Subjects 2027/2028
• JAMB Syllabus 2026/2027 All Subjects Download PDF

This same idea helps you understand why surface area can affect reaction rate.

Reaction Rate Curves and Activation Energy

You should also study reaction rate curves and activation energy.

The syllabus includes a qualitative treatment of the Arrhenius law and collision theory. It also covers the effect of light on some reactions, such as the halogenation of alkanes.

You should be able to:

• Identify factors affecting reaction rates
• Explain the effect of temperature
• Explain the effect of concentration or pressure
• Explain the effect of surface area
• Identify suitable catalysts
• Interpret reaction rate curves
• Solve simple rate problems
• Relate reaction rate to kinetic theory
• Understand the importance of activation energy
• Deduce activation energy from reaction rate curves

Practise questions on reaction rates because this topic can involve both explanation and simple calculations.

Chemical Equilibrium

Chemical equilibrium is another important part of the JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry.

Reversible Reactions

You should understand the meaning of reversible reactions and dynamic equilibrium.

The syllabus expects you to identify factors that affect the position of equilibrium and predict how changes in those factors affect the equilibrium position.

You should also study:

• Le Chatelier’s principle
• Equilibrium constant
• Factors affecting equilibrium position
• Effects of changes on equilibrium constant

The syllabus gives simple examples such as the action of steam on iron and the reaction involving N₂O₄ and NO₂.

Le Chatelier’s Principle

When studying Le Chatelier’s principle, focus on what happens when conditions affecting an equilibrium system are changed.

For example, you should be able to predict the effect of changes in the factors listed in the syllabus.

Don’t just memorize the name of Le Chatelier’s principle. Practise applying it to simple chemical reactions.

The syllabus states that no calculation will be required for the chemical equilibrium section.

So, your main focus here should be understanding the ideas and being able to predict changes in equilibrium.

Energy changes, reaction rates and equilibrium are connected to the behaviour of chemical reactions. Once you understand the basic ideas in each area, you can move on to the study of non-metals, metals and their compounds.

Chemistry Area of Concentration: Non-Metals and Metals

Non-metals and metals are major parts of the JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry 2027/2028. This section covers the properties, preparation, uses and tests of several elements and their compounds.

You will study hydrogen, halogens, oxygen, sulphur, nitrogen and carbon under non-metals. You will also study metals such as sodium, calcium, aluminium, tin, iron and copper.

Try to learn the properties, preparation methods, uses and chemical tests of the substances listed in the syllabus.

Non-Metals and Their Compounds

Hydrogen and Halogens

Hydrogen is the first non-metal covered in this section.

You should study:

• Commercial production of hydrogen from water gas
• Cracking of petroleum fractions
• Laboratory preparation of hydrogen
• Properties of hydrogen
• Uses of hydrogen
• Test for hydrogen

The syllabus also covers hydrogen chloride and hydrochloric acid, including their preparation, properties and the test for chlorides.

Halogens are also included, with chlorine used as the representative element.

You should study the laboratory and industrial preparation of chlorine, its properties and its uses. The syllabus gives examples such as water sterilization, bleaching, and the manufacture of hydrochloric acid, plastics and insecticides.

Make sure you can connect each substance with its preparation, properties and uses.

Oxygen and Sulphur

Oxygen is another important topic.

You should study:

• Laboratory preparation of oxygen
• Properties of oxygen
• Uses of oxygen
• Commercial production from liquid air
• Oxides
• Ozone

The syllabus also covers acidic, basic, amphoteric and neutral oxides. You should know ozone as an allotrope of oxygen and understand its importance in the atmosphere.

Sulphur is also included.

You should study its uses and allotropes, as well as the preparation, properties and uses of sulphur (IV) oxide.

You should also know about:

• Trioxosulphate (IV) acid and its salts
• Tetraoxosulphate (VI) acid
• Hydrogen sulphide
• Tests for sulphate and sulphide ions

The syllabus includes the commercial preparation of tetraoxosulphate (VI) acid using the contact process and its properties as a dilute acid, oxidizing agent and dehydrating agent.

Nitrogen and Its Compounds

Nitrogen is another major part of the Area of Concentration for Chemistry.

You should study the laboratory and industrial production of nitrogen, including production from liquid air.

You should also study ammonia, including:

• Laboratory preparation
• Industrial preparation
• Haber process
• Properties of ammonia
• Uses of ammonia
• Ammonium salts
• Oxidation of ammonia

The syllabus also covers trioxonitrate (V) acid, its preparation, properties and uses, as well as the action of heat on trioxonitrate (V) salts.

You should know the properties of nitrogen oxides such as:

• N₂O
• NO
• NO₂

The syllabus also includes the nitrogen cycle and expects candidates to understand its importance to the environment.

Carbon and Its Compounds

Allotropes of Carbon

Carbon is also included under non-metals.

You should study the allotropes of carbon, their properties and uses.

The syllabus also covers carbon (IV) oxide, including its laboratory preparation, properties, uses and test for carbonate ions.

Carbon (II) oxide is also important.

You should understand its laboratory preparation, properties and effect on blood. You should also know sources of carbon (II) oxide, including charcoal, fire and exhaust fumes.

Coal, Coke and Synthetic Gas

The Chemistry syllabus also includes coal.

You should study:

• Different types of coal
• Products obtained from destructive distillation of wood and coal
• Coke
• Gasification of coke
• Synthetic gas
• Uses of coke and synthetic gas

Pay attention to the products obtained from destructive distillation because the syllabus specifically includes them.

Metals and Their Compounds

Metals form another large part of this section.

General Properties of Metals

You should understand the general properties of metals and know how their properties relate to methods of extraction.

The syllabus expects candidates to:

• Identify the general properties of metals
• Determine suitable extraction methods
• Relate extraction methods to metal properties
• Compare chemical reactivities
• State uses of metals
• Identify specific tests for metallic ions
• Understand the production of metal compounds

Sodium and Calcium

Sodium is studied as an example of an alkali metal.

You should learn about sodium hydroxide, including its production by electrolysis of brine, its action on aluminium, zinc and lead ions, and its uses.

The syllabus also covers sodium trioxocarbonate (IV), sodium hydrogen trioxocarbonate (IV) and sodium chloride.

You should know the Solvay process and the uses of sodium trioxocarbonate (IV), including its use in glass manufacture.

Calcium is studied as an example of an alkaline-earth metal.

You should study:

• Calcium oxide
• Calcium hydroxide
• Calcium trioxocarbonate (IV)
• Their properties and uses
• Preparation of calcium oxide from sea shells
• Chemical composition of cement
• Setting of mortar
• Test for Ca²⁺

Aluminium, Tin, Iron and Copper

Aluminium and Tin

For aluminium, you should study the purification of bauxite, electrolytic extraction, properties and uses of aluminium and its compounds.

The syllabus also includes the test for Al³⁺.

For tin, you should study its extraction from ores, properties and uses.

Transition Metals and Iron

The first transition series is also included.

You should study:

• Electron configuration
• Oxidation states
• Complex ion formation
• Formation of coloured ions
• Catalysis

The syllabus also expects you to know the IUPAC names of simple transition metal complexes.

Iron is another major topic.

You should study its extraction from sulphide and oxide ores, properties, uses and different forms of iron.

You should also understand the advantages of steel over iron and know the tests for Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺.

Copper and Alloys

For copper, study its extraction from sulphide and oxide ores, properties and uses.

You should also learn about copper (II) tetraoxosulphate (VI), including its preparation and uses, as well as the test for Cu²⁺.

The syllabus also lists several alloys:

• Steel
• Stainless steel
• Brass
• Bronze
• Type-metal
• Duralumin
• Soft solder
• Permalloy
• Alnico

For these alloys, the syllabus focuses on their constituents and uses.

Make sure you can distinguish alloys from pure metals and understand why alloys are used for different purposes.

Non-metals and metals cover many individual substances, so it can help to make a simple table in your personal notes showing each substance, its preparation, properties, uses and tests.

That way, when you revise, you can quickly check what you know and what you still need to study.

Chemistry Area of Concentration: Organic Compounds

Organic compounds are another major part of the JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry 2027/2028. This section covers carbon compounds and their properties, structures, reactions, uses and preparation.

You will study hydrocarbons, alkanols, alkanals, alkanones, alkanoic acids, alkanoates, amines, carbohydrates, proteins and polymers.

Organic Chemistry can look large at first, but you can make it easier by studying each class of compound one after another.

Hydrocarbons

Aliphatic Hydrocarbons

The Chemistry syllabus starts Organic Chemistry with the tetravalency of carbon.

You should understand how carbon forms chains of compounds, a property known as catenation. You should also study general formulae, IUPAC nomenclature, empirical formulae and the classification of organic compounds according to their functional groups.

The main aliphatic hydrocarbons in the syllabus are:

• Alkanes
• Alkenes
• Alkynes

For alkanes, study their homologous series, physical properties, substitution reactions and uses. Structural isomerism is also included, but examples of isomerism should not go beyond six carbon atoms.

For alkenes, study structural and geometric isomerism, addition reactions and polymerization.

For alkynes, the syllabus focuses on ethyne, including its production from the action of water on carbides, simple reactions and properties. You should also know the chemical test for terminal alkynes.

Make sure you can distinguish alkanes, alkenes and alkynes by their properties and reactions.

Petroleum and Its Products

Petroleum is also part of the Chemistry syllabus.

You should study:

• Composition of petroleum
• Fractional distillation
• Major products
• Cracking
• Reforming
• Petrochemicals
• Octane number
• Quality of petrol

You should understand that crude oil is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons. You should also be able to relate different petroleum fractions to their properties and uses.

The syllabus also expects you to understand how cracking and reforming are used to improve the quality of petroleum fractions.

Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Alkanols

Benzene

Benzene is included as an example of an aromatic hydrocarbon.

You should study its structure, properties and uses. You should also understand the difference between aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons.

When revising benzene, focus on how its structure connects with its properties.

Alkanols

The syllabus covers primary, secondary and tertiary alkanols.

You should study the production of ethanol by:

• Fermentation
• Petroleum by-products

Local examples of fermentation and distillation are also mentioned in the syllabus, including the production of gin from palm wine and other local sources. Glycerol is included as an example of a polyhydric alkanol.

You should also study reactions of the OH group and the oxidation of primary, secondary and tertiary alkanols.

The syllabus specifically includes the Lucas test as a distinguishing test among primary, secondary and tertiary alkanols.

Learn the differences between the three classes of alkanols carefully because they can be tested through both properties and chemical tests.

Alkanals, Alkanones and Alkanoic Acids

Alkanals and Alkanones

The syllabus includes alkanals and alkanones.

You should know the chemical test used to distinguish between them.

When studying this area, pay attention to the functional groups and the reactions used to identify each class.

Alkanoic Acids

Alkanoic acids are also included.

You should study their chemical reactions, especially:

• Neutralization
• Esterification

The syllabus gives ethanedioic acid, also called oxalic acid, as an example of a dicarboxylic acid and benzenecarboxylic acid as an example of an aromatic acid.

You should be able to compare different types of alkanoic acids and understand their reactions.

Alkanoates, Amines and Carbohydrates

Alkanoates and Soap

Alkanoates are formed from alkanoic acids and alkanols.

The syllabus connects alkanoates with fats and oils and includes saponification.

You should study the production of:

• Soap
• Margarine

You should also understand the difference between soaps and detergents.

This is a good example of how Organic Chemistry connects with everyday life. When you use soap to wash your hands, you are using a product connected to Chemistry.

Amines

The syllabus includes alkanamines, also called amines.

You should study:

• Primary amines
• Secondary amines
• Tertiary amines

You should understand how these classes differ from one another.

Carbohydrates and Proteins

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are divided into:

• Monosaccharides
• Disaccharides
• Polysaccharides

The syllabus covers their composition, chemical tests for simple sugars and the hydrolysis of complex sugars.

Examples include cellulose from cotton and starch from cassava. You should also know the uses of sugars and starch in producing alcoholic beverages, pharmaceuticals and textiles.

The syllabus expects you to compare the different classes of carbohydrates and identify the products of hydrolysis and dehydration.

Learn the differences between mono-, di- and polysaccharides with simple examples.

Proteins and Enzymes

Protein is another important Organic Chemistry topic.

You should study:

• Primary structure of proteins
• Hydrolysis
• Protein tests
• Enzymes and their functions

The tests listed in the syllabus include:

• Ninhydrin test
• Biuret test
• Millon’s test
• Xanthoproteic test

Try to learn what each test is used to identify rather than simply memorizing the names.

Polymers

Polymers are the final major area under Organic Compounds.

Natural and Synthetic Polymers

You should study both natural and synthetic rubber.

The syllabus includes:

• Addition polymerization
• Condensation polymerization
• Methods of preparation
• Examples
• Uses
• Thermoplastic plastics
• Thermosetting plastics

You should understand the difference between addition and condensation polymerization.

You should also be able to distinguish natural polymers from synthetic polymers and classify commercial polymers according to their uses.

Make sure you understand the difference between thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics.

Organic Chemistry covers many different compounds, so I advise you to study it in groups. Start with hydrocarbons, then move to compounds containing oxygen and nitrogen, followed by carbohydrates, proteins and polymers.

This will make the JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry easier to organize and revise.

Chemistry and Industry

Chemistry is not only about what you learn in the classroom. It is also used in many industries to make useful products. This is why Chemistry and Industry is included in the JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry 2027/2028.

The syllabus includes chemical industries, raw materials, industrial products and biotechnology.

Chemical Industries

Types of Chemical Industries

A chemical industry is an industry that uses chemical substances and processes to produce useful products.

The Chemistry syllabus expects you to study different types of chemical industries and classify them according to their products.

You should understand:

• The different types of chemical industries
• The products made by each industry
• The raw materials used
• The importance of each industry

Don’t only memorize the names of industries. Try to connect each industry with its raw materials and products.

For example, when you study a particular chemical industry, ask yourself: What raw material does it need? What product does it make? Why is that product useful?

These simple questions can help you understand the topic better.

Raw Materials and Industrial Processes

Raw materials are substances used to make other products.

The syllabus expects candidates to identify the raw materials needed for different chemical industries and understand how industrial processes are connected with the production of useful substances.

You should also know the difference between fine chemicals and heavy chemicals.

The syllabus expects you to distinguish between these types of chemicals and understand the relevance of different chemical industries.

Biotechnology

Chemistry and Biotechnology

Biotechnology is also mentioned under Chemistry and Industry.

The syllabus expects candidates to relate industrial processes to biotechnology.

This shows how Chemistry can connect with other areas of science and industry.

You should understand the basic relationship between biotechnology and industrial production as required by the syllabus.

When studying this section, focus on the connection between raw materials, industrial processes, products and biotechnology.

How to Study Chemistry and Industry

This section is shorter than some of the other areas in the Chemistry syllabus, but you should still study it.

A simple way to revise it is to make a small table in your notes with these headings:

Area	What to Know
Chemical industries	Types and products
Raw materials	Materials used in production
Fine and heavy chemicals	Main difference
Industrial processes	How they are connected to production
Biotechnology	Relationship with industry

The aim is not to memorize long explanations. Understand what each industry produces, the raw materials it uses and why the industry is important.

Chemistry and Industry is the final main topic in the Chemistry syllabus. After studying it, you should also review the recommended Chemistry textbooks listed in the syllabus and use them to explain any topic you still find difficult.

JAMB Recommended Chemistry Textbooks

The Chemistry syllabus also provides a list of recommended Chemistry textbooks. These books can help you understand the topics in the JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry 2027/2028 in more detail.

Recommended Chemistry Books

The following textbooks are listed in the Chemistry syllabus:

No.	Recommended Textbook
1	New School Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools by Ababio, O. Y. (2009), Fourth Edition
2	Senior Secondary Chemistry by Bajah, S.T., Teibo, B.O., Onwu, G. and Obikwere, A.
3	Understanding Chemistry for Schools and Colleges by Ojokuku, G.O. (2012, Revised Edition)
4	Essential: Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools by I. A. Odesina (2008), 2nd Edition
5	Countdown to WASSCE/SSCE, NECO, JME Chemistry by Uche, I.O., Adenuga, I.J. and Iwuagwu, S.L.

These are the five recommended Chemistry texts listed in the syllabus.

Read also: Full List of JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Chemistry 2027/2028

How to Use the Textbooks

You do not need to read all the books from beginning to end.

Start With the Syllabus

First, check the Chemistry topic you want to study in the syllabus.

For example, if you are studying organic compounds, the syllabus tells you to study hydrocarbons, alkanols, alkanals, alkanones, alkanoic acids, alkanoates, amines, carbohydrates, proteins and polymers.

You can then use one of the recommended textbooks to get more explanations, examples and practice questions.

Let the syllabus tell you what to study, then let your textbook help you understand it.

Focus on Calculations and Reactions

Some Chemistry topics require more practice than simple reading.

These include areas such as stoichiometry, mole calculations, gas laws, pH and pOH, electrolysis, energy changes and reaction rates. The syllabus specifically includes simple calculations in several of these areas.

So, get a notebook and practise questions after studying each topic.

Reading the solution is not the same as being able to solve the question yourself.

You should also pay attention to chemical equations, reactions, preparation methods, properties, uses and chemical tests because these appear in many parts of the Chemistry syllabus.

The important thing is to study the syllabus carefully and use the recommended textbooks to build a better understanding of each topic.

FAQs About JAMB Chemistry

Conclusion

Final Advice for Chemistry Candidates

The JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry 2027/2028 covers many areas, including separation of mixtures, chemical combination, gas laws, atomic structure, bonding, acids and bases, electrolysis, chemical equilibrium, metals, non-metals, organic compounds and Chemistry in industry.

Do not study only the topics you find easy. Try to cover the full syllabus and pay attention to the objectives under each topic.

You should also practise calculations because the syllabus includes areas such as stoichiometry, gas laws, solubility, pH and pOH, electrolysis, energy changes and reaction rates.

Use the recommended Chemistry textbooks to explain topics you do not understand. The syllabus lists books such as New School Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools, Senior Secondary Chemistry and Understanding Chemistry for Schools and Colleges.

Share This Guide

The JAMB Area of Concentration for Chemistry can help you organise your Chemistry reading and know the main areas to study.

Start with the syllabus, study each topic carefully, practise questions, and revise regularly.

If this guide has helped you, share it with another JAMB candidate who may find it useful.

Which Chemistry topic do you find most difficult? Tell me in the comments.