The WAEC Chemistry Practical is a very important part of the WAEC Chemistry exam. This is where students apply what they have learned by carrying out real experiments in the lab. You will be asked to mix chemicals, observe reactions, and answer questions based on what you see.

WAEC has released the full list of specimens, equipment, and instructions for the 2025 Chemistry Practical exam. This guide will help you understand everything you need to know — from the tools and chemicals you’ll use to important tips for passing the exam.

Importance of the WAEC Chemistry Practical

This practical exam tests your ability to:

  • Use laboratory equipment properly
  • Observe chemical reactions correctly
  • Record accurate results and give clear explanations

It is not just about mixing liquids — it shows how well you understand Chemistry in action.

WAEC Chemistry Practical 2025 Equipment List

Each student will need the following materials during the exam:

  • One burette (50.0 cm³)
  • One pipette (20.0 or 25.0 cm³) – all students in a center must use the same size
  • Conical flask, white tile, and clamp stand for titration
  • Four test tubes, one boiling tube, one beaker
  • Glass rod, spatula, droppers
  • Filtration apparatus
  • Wash bottle with distilled or deionized water
  • Watch glass
  • Bunsen burner or safe heat source
  • Burning splint
  • Indicators: methyl orange and phenolphthalein
  • Red and blue litmus papers
  • Calculator or mathematical table

Chemicals for Qualitative Analysis

These reagents will be used to test for various ions and reactions:

  • Dilute sodium hydroxide
  • Dilute hydrochloric acid
  • Dilute nitric acid
  • Silver nitrate solution
  • Aqueous barium chloride
  • Aqueous ammonia
  • Lime water
  • Dilute sulphuric acid
  • Fehling’s solution A and B

Chemical Solutions for Each Student

Each candidate will receive these labeled solutions:

1. Hydrochloric Acid Solution

  • Label: An (where n is the student’s number)
  • Volume: 150 cm³
  • Contains 8.6 cm³ of concentrated HCl per 1 dm³

2. Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate Solution (NaHCO₃)

  • Label: Bn
  • Volume: 150 cm³
  • Contains 8.0 g of NaHCO₃ per 1 dm³

3. Solid Mixture of Copper (II) Sulphate and Glucose

  • Label: Cn
  • Quantity: One spatulaful
  • A 1:1 uniform mixture of CuSO₄ and glucose
  • Supplied in a small specimen bottle

Important: Labels An, Bn, and Cn must match each candidate’s serial number to avoid confusion.

Tips to Pass the WAEC Chemistry Practical Exam

Learn how to use the lab equipment
Practice using a burette, pipette, and other tools correctly. Know how to take accurate readings and avoid mistakes.

Understand common chemical reactions
Be familiar with signs of reactions like color change, gas bubbles, or the formation of a solid. These are often tested during qualitative analysis.

Practice titration in advance
Titration is a regular part of the exam. Practice it well so you can carry it out with confidence and record your results accurately.

Follow lab safety rules
Do not touch chemicals with bare hands. Always wear protective gear and wash your hands after handling any substance.

Use correct labels in your answers
Use the given labels (An, Bn, Cn) when referring to solutions in your answers. This helps the examiner understand your work and gives you full credit.

Stay calm and focused
If something goes wrong, don’t panic. Describe exactly what you observed and continue with the rest of the exam. You will still get marks for correct observations and explanations.

Final Advice

Preparing for the WAEC Chemistry Practical is all about practice, observation, and careful work. Study your past practical notes, understand how each chemical behaves, and get familiar with the lab tools. With good preparation, you will walk into the exam room with confidence and come out with success.