Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geography)
What the exam tests
This integrated section samples physics, chemistry, biology, and geography. Expect quantitative physics items, chemical formulas and reactions, cell and organism biology, and map and climate reasoning.
Concepts to master
- Physics: kinematics, Newton's laws, work and energy, electric circuits, and basic wave optics.
- Chemistry: the periodic table, bonding, balancing equations, acids and bases, and mole calculations.
- Biology: cell structure, genetics, photosynthesis and respiration, and ecosystems.
- Geography: Earth's structure, climate zones, natural resources of Armenia, and map reading.
Traps
Units are the classic trap: mixing grams and moles, or seconds and minutes, changes the answer. In chemistry, an unbalanced equation invalidates mole ratios. In biology, distinguish genotype from phenotype. In geography, distinguish latitude effects from altitude effects on climate.
Rule of thumb
Convert to SI or standard units before calculating, and carry units through the work. For chemistry, balance the equation first; only then apply mole ratios.
Worked example
How many moles are in 36 g of water (H₂O, molar mass 18 g/mol)? Divide mass by molar mass: 36 ÷ 18 = 2 mol. The trap is answering «36» by skipping the division, or using 2 g/mol for hydrogen alone. State the molar mass, then divide.