Choosing a great IB Chemistry Internal Assessment (IA) topic is key to scoring well. Below are 100% unique topics, along with examples to help you understand how to design your experiment.
Choosing a strong Chemistry IA topic crucial for maximizing your score. Your Chemistry IA topic should be focused, measurable, and rooted in clear scientific principles. Here’s everything you need to get started.
If you’re searching for engaging IB Chemistry IA topics with examples, choosing a relevant and original idea is crucial for a high-scoring investigation. Below is a list of topics that cover various chemistry fields, ensuring both depth and feasibility.
Chemistry IA Topics
1. Reaction Kinetics & Rate of Reaction

These topics focus on how various factors influence the speed of chemical reactions.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
- How does changing the temperature influence the reaction rate between sodium thiosulfate and hydrochloric acid?
- Example: Measure the time it takes for a cross beneath a beaker to disappear as sulfur forms in different temperatures.
- Investigating the impact of catalyst concentration on the decomposition rate of hydrogen peroxide.
- Example: Use different amounts of manganese dioxide and measure oxygen gas production over time.
- How does the surface area of calcium carbonate influence its reaction rate with hydrochloric acid?
- Example: Compare reaction rates using powdered, crushed, and whole calcium carbonate pieces.
- Studying the effect of light intensity on the photochemical decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.
- Example: Expose hydrogen peroxide to different light intensities and measure oxygen release.
- How does pH influence the rate of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction, such as catalase with hydrogen peroxide?
- Example: Test how quickly bubbles form when mixing hydrogen peroxide with potato extract at different pH levels.
2. Acid-Base Chemistry & pH Studies

These topics explore acids, bases, and their real-world applications.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
- Comparing the buffering capacity of different antacids using titration.
- Example: Neutralize different antacid brands with hydrochloric acid and measure pH changes.
- How does temperature impact the pH of a buffer solution?
- Example: Measure the pH of a buffer at different temperatures and observe variations.
- Investigating the effect of carbonation levels on the acidity of soft drinks.
- Example: Measure the pH of sodas before and after shaking to release COâ‚‚.
- Measuring the effect of dilution on the pH of strong and weak acids.
- Example: Dilute hydrochloric acid and ethanoic acid at different ratios and record pH values.
- How do different acids affect the corrosion rate of metals?
- Example: Immerse iron nails in hydrochloric, sulfuric, and ethanoic acids and measure mass loss over time.
3. Electrochemistry & Redox Reactions

These topics examine electricity and oxidation-reduction reactions.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
- Investigating the impact of electrolyte concentration on the efficiency of an electrochemical cell.
- Example: Test how different salt concentrations affect the voltage of a simple lemon battery.
- How does temperature influence the voltage output of a voltaic cell?
- Example: Measure voltage from a zinc-copper cell at different temperatures.
- The effect of electrode material on the efficiency of an electrolysis reaction.
- Example: Compare the rate of hydrogen gas production using graphite vs. copper electrodes.
- Studying the effect of different salt bridges on galvanic cell performance.
- Example: Use potassium nitrate, sodium chloride, and agar salt bridges and compare cell voltages.
- How does changing the anode and cathode affect the rate of metal deposition in electroplating?
- Example: Electroplate copper onto iron nails and measure mass changes.
4. Organic Chemistry & Biochemical Reactions

These topics focus on carbon-based molecules and biological chemistry.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
- Investigating the oxidation of alcohols using potassium dichromate.
- Example: React ethanol, propanol, and butanol with potassium dichromate and observe color changes.
- How does light exposure affect the degradation of Vitamin C in orange juice?
- Example: Store orange juice in light and dark conditions, then test Vitamin C content using iodine titration.
- Comparing the effectiveness of natural vs. synthetic antioxidants in preventing oxidation.
- Example: Test how Vitamin E and BHT (a synthetic antioxidant) slow down apple browning.
- The effect of different cooking methods on the vitamin C content in vegetables.
- Example: Measure vitamin C levels in boiled, steamed, and raw spinach.
- Investigating the impact of different solvents on the extraction efficiency of plant-based essential oils.
- Example: Extract mint oil using water, ethanol, and hexane, then compare yields.
5. Thermochemistry & Energetics

These topics explore heat energy changes in chemical reactions.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
- How does the concentration of a solution affect its enthalpy change during neutralization?
- Example: Mix different concentrations of hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide and record temperature changes.
- Investigating the impact of different fuel types on energy released during combustion.
- Example: Burn ethanol, propane, and butane and measure temperature increase in water.
- How does pressure affect the boiling point and enthalpy of vaporization of water?
- Example: Measure boiling points at different altitudes or using a vacuum pump.
- The relationship between bond enthalpy and combustion efficiency of different hydrocarbons.
- Example: Compare heat released when burning methane, ethane, and propane.
- Comparing the calorific value of different edible oils.
- Example: Burn olive, coconut, and sunflower oil and measure the heat energy released.
6. Environmental Chemistry & Green Chemistry

These topics examine sustainable chemistry and environmental impact.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
- Investigating the effect of pollutants on the pH of rainwater.
- Example: Collect rainwater samples from urban and rural areas and compare pH levels.
- How do different soil types affect the leaching of heavy metals?
- Example: Test how lead ions filter through sand, clay, and loam.
- Studying the efficiency of activated charcoal in removing impurities from water.
- Example: Pass dyed water through activated charcoal and measure color reduction.
- How does ocean acidification impact the solubility of calcium carbonate in seawater?
- Example: Immerse chalk in seawater with different COâ‚‚ levels and measure mass loss.
- Comparing the effectiveness of biodegradable vs. non-biodegradable plastics in decomposition.
- Example: Observe the breakdown of corn-based plastic vs. traditional plastic over time.
Grading Rubrics (Chemistry IA Criteria Breakdown)
S. No. | Criterion | Marks |
---|---|---|
A | Personal Engagement | 2 |
B | Exploration | 6 |
C | Analysis | 6 |
D | Evaluation | 6 |
E | Communication | 4 |
Final Thoughts
IB Chemistry IA topics with examples provide a wide range of choices for your investigation. Each topic includes practical topics to help you visualize your experiment.
Chemistry IA Topic Structure for Maximum Marks
Introduction – Research question, background info, hypothesis.
Methodology – Detailed procedure, control of variables, materials.
Data Collection & Analysis – Tables, graphs, uncertainty calculations.
Evaluation & Conclusion – Error analysis, limitations, improvements.
Additionally, Chemistry IA Resource: How to write IB Chemistry IA that impresses your examiner
https://cliffscientificworld.com/https-ib-chemistry-ia-internal-assessment/
I hope this helps! If you need help refining your research question or structuring your IA, feel free to reach out. We are happy to assist!
Would you like more guidance on experimental design, research questions, or data analysis? Let us know in the comment section!
How to pick a chemistry IA topic?
Choosing a strong Chemistry IA topic crucial for maximizing your score. Your Chemistry IA topic should be focused, measurable, and rooted in clear scientific principles. Here’s everything you need to get started.
If you’re searching for engaging IB Chemistry IA topics with examples, choosing a relevant and original idea is crucial for a high-scoring investigation. Below is a list of topics that cover various chemistry fields, ensuring both depth and feasibility.
Chemistry IA Topics
1. Reaction Kinetics & Rate of Reaction

These topics focus on how various factors influence the speed of chemical reactions.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
How does changing the temperature influence the reaction rate between sodium thiosulfate and hydrochloric acid? Example: Measure the time it takes for a cross beneath a beaker to disappear as sulfur forms in different temperatures.
Investigating the impact of catalyst concentration on the decomposition rate of hydrogen peroxide. Example: Use different amounts of manganese dioxide and measure oxygen gas production over time.
How does the surface area of calcium carbonate influence its reaction rate with hydrochloric acid? Example: Compare reaction rates using powdered, crushed, and whole calcium carbonate pieces.
Studying the effect of light intensity on the photochemical decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. Example: Expose hydrogen peroxide to different light intensities and measure oxygen release.
How does pH influence the rate of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction, such as catalase with hydrogen peroxide? Example: Test how quickly bubbles form when mixing hydrogen peroxide with potato extract at different pH levels.
2. Acid-Base Chemistry & pH Studies

These topics explore acids, bases, and their real-world applications.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Comparing the buffering capacity of different antacids using titration. Example: Neutralize different antacid brands with hydrochloric acid and measure pH changes.
How does temperature impact the pH of a buffer solution? Example: Measure the pH of a buffer at different temperatures and observe variations.
Investigating the effect of carbonation levels on the acidity of soft drinks. Example: Measure the pH of sodas before and after shaking to release COâ‚‚.
Measuring the effect of dilution on the pH of strong and weak acids. Example: Dilute hydrochloric acid and ethanoic acid at different ratios and record pH values.
How do different acids affect the corrosion rate of metals? Example: Immerse iron nails in hydrochloric, sulfuric, and ethanoic acids and measure mass loss over time.
3. Electrochemistry & Redox Reactions

These topics examine electricity and oxidation-reduction reactions.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Investigating the impact of electrolyte concentration on the efficiency of an electrochemical cell. Example: Test how different salt concentrations affect the voltage of a simple lemon battery.
How does temperature influence the voltage output of a voltaic cell? Example: Measure voltage from a zinc-copper cell at different temperatures.
The effect of electrode material on the efficiency of an electrolysis reaction. Example: Compare the rate of hydrogen gas production using graphite vs. copper electrodes.
Studying the effect of different salt bridges on galvanic cell performance. Example: Use potassium nitrate, sodium chloride, and agar salt bridges and compare cell voltages.
How does changing the anode and cathode affect the rate of metal deposition in electroplating? Example: Electroplate copper onto iron nails and measure mass changes.
4. Organic Chemistry & Biochemical Reactions

These topics focus on carbon-based molecules and biological chemistry.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Investigating the oxidation of alcohols using potassium dichromate. Example: React ethanol, propanol, and butanol with potassium dichromate and observe color changes.
How does light exposure affect the degradation of Vitamin C in orange juice? Example: Store orange juice in light and dark conditions, then test Vitamin C content using iodine titration.
Comparing the effectiveness of natural vs. synthetic antioxidants in preventing oxidation. Example: Test how Vitamin E and BHT (a synthetic antioxidant) slow down apple browning.
The effect of different cooking methods on the vitamin C content in vegetables. Example: Measure vitamin C levels in boiled, steamed, and raw spinach.
Investigating the impact of different solvents on the extraction efficiency of plant-based essential oils. Example: Extract mint oil using water, ethanol, and hexane, then compare yields.
5. Thermochemistry & Energetics

These topics explore heat energy changes in chemical reactions.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
How does the concentration of a solution affect its enthalpy change during neutralization? Example: Mix different concentrations of hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide and record temperature changes.
Investigating the impact of different fuel types on energy released during combustion. Example: Burn ethanol, propane, and butane and measure temperature increase in water.
How does pressure affect the boiling point and enthalpy of vaporization of water? Example: Measure boiling points at different altitudes or using a vacuum pump.
The relationship between bond enthalpy and combustion efficiency of different hydrocarbons. Example: Compare heat released when burning methane, ethane, and propane.
Comparing the calorific value of different edible oils. Example: Burn olive, coconut, and sunflower oil and measure the heat energy released.
6. Environmental Chemistry & Green Chemistry

These topics examine sustainable chemistry and environmental impact.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Investigating the effect of pollutants on the pH of rainwater. Example: Collect rainwater samples from urban and rural areas and compare pH levels.
How do different soil types affect the leaching of heavy metals? Example: Test how lead ions filter through sand, clay, and loam.
Studying the efficiency of activated charcoal in removing impurities from water. Example: Pass dyed water through activated charcoal and measure color reduction.
How does ocean acidification impact the solubility of calcium carbonate in seawater? Example: Immerse chalk in seawater with different COâ‚‚ levels and measure mass loss.
Comparing the effectiveness of biodegradable vs. non-biodegradable plastics in decomposition. Example: Observe the breakdown of corn-based plastic vs. traditional plastic over time.
Grading Rubrics (Chemistry IA Criteria Breakdown)
S. No. | Criterion | Marks |
---|---|---|
A | Personal Engagement | 2 |
B | Exploration | 6 |
C | Analysis | 6 |
D | Evaluation | 6 |
E | Communication | 4 |
IB Chemistry IA topics with examples provide a wide range of choices for your investigation. Each topic includes practical topics to help you visualize your experiment.
Chemistry IA Topic Structure for Maximum Marks
Introduction – Research question, background info, hypothesis.
Methodology – Detailed procedure, control of variables, materials.
Data Collection & Analysis – Tables, graphs, uncertainty calculations.
Evaluation & Conclusion – Error analysis, limitations, improvements.
Additionally, Chemistry IA Resource: How to write IB Chemistry IA that impresses your examiner
https://cliffscientificworld.com/https-ib-chemistry-ia-internal-assessment/
I hope this helps! If you need help refining your research question or structuring your IA, feel free to reach out. We are happy to assist!
How to choose a Chemistry IA Topics with Examples?
If you’re searching for an engaging IB Chemistry IA topic, choosing a relevant and original idea is crucial for a high-scoring investigation. Below is a list of topics that cover various chemistry fields, ensuring both depth and feasibility.
Pick a topic that genuinely interests you in Chemistry IA Topics with Examples: your enthusiasm will make the research and experimentation process much easier.
Ensure it is testable & feasible – You should be able to collect data with available lab equipment.
Include a clear independent & dependent variable – This makes your Chemistry IA topic structured and easier to analyze.
Choose an experiment with strong chemical theory connections – Linking to IB syllabus topics strengthens your IA.
How to get a 7 on Chemistry IA Topics with Examples?
Choosing a strong Chemistry IA Topics with Examples: is crucial for maximizing your score. Your Chemistry IA topic should be focused, measurable, and rooted in clear scientific principles. Here’s everything you need to get started.
If you’re searching for an engaging IB Chemistry IA topic, choosing a relevant and original idea is crucial for a high-scoring investigation. Below is a list of topics that cover various chemistry fields, ensuring both depth and feasibility.
Chemistry IA Topic Structure for Maximum Marks
Introduction – Research question, background info, hypothesis.
Methodology – Detailed procedure, control of variables, materials.
Data Collection & Analysis – Tables, graphs, uncertainty calculations.
Evaluation & Conclusion – Error analysis, limitations, improvements.
How do I start a chemistry IA?
Chemistry IA Topic Structure for Maximum Marks
Introduction – Research question, background info, hypothesis.
Methodology – Detailed procedure, control of variables, materials.
Data Collection & Analysis – Tables, graphs, uncertainty calculations.
Evaluation & Conclusion – Error analysis, limitations, improvements.
Additionally, Chemistry IA Resource: How to write IB Chemistry IA that impresses your examiner
https://cliffscientificworld.com/https-ib-chemistry-ia-internal-assessment/
How many trials are needed for chemistry IA?
The number of trials required for a chemistry Internal Assessment (IA) in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program can vary significantly based on the nature of the experiment and the specific methodology used. Generally, it is advisable to conduct at least three trials for each experimental condition. This repetition helps to ensure that the data gathered is reliable and allows for the identification of any anomalies or inconsistencies.
For more complex experiments, additional trials might be necessary to achieve a statistically significant set of results. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that your findings are robust and can be accurately analyzed. It’s also important to adhere to the guidelines provided by your teacher regarding the expectations for your particular IA.
What are the Chemistry IA Topics with examples of Electrochemistry & Redox Reactions?
Investigating the impact of electrolyte concentration on the efficiency of an electrochemical cell.
Example: Test how different salt concentrations affect the voltage of a simple lemon battery.
How does temperature influence the voltage output of a voltaic cell?
Chemistry IA Topics with examples
Example: Measure voltage from a zinc-copper cell at different temperatures.
The effect of electrode material on the efficiency of an electrolysis reaction.
Chemistry IA Topics with examples
Example: Compare the rate of hydrogen gas production using graphite vs. copper electrodes.
Studying the effect of different salt bridges on galvanic cell performance.
Example: Use potassium nitrate, sodium chloride, and agar salt bridges and compare cell voltages.
Chemistry IA Topics with examples
How does changing the anode and cathode affect the rate of metal deposition in electroplating?
Example: Electroplate copper onto iron nails and measure mass changes.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Choosing a great IB Chemistry Internal Assessment (IA) topic is key to scoring well. Below are 100% unique topics, along with examples to help you understand how to design your experiment.
Choosing a strong Chemistry IA topic crucial for maximizing your score. Your Chemistry IA topic should be focused, measurable, and rooted in clear scientific principles. Here’s everything you need to get started.
If you’re searching for engaging IB Chemistry IA topics with examples, choosing a relevant and original idea is crucial for a high-scoring investigation. Below is a list of topics that cover various chemistry fields, ensuring both depth and feasibility.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
1. Reaction Kinetics & Rate of Reaction

These topics focus on how various factors influence the speed of chemical reactions.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
How does changing the temperature influence the reaction rate between sodium thiosulfate and hydrochloric acid? Example: Measure the time it takes for a cross beneath a beaker to disappear as sulfur forms in different temperatures.
Investigating the impact of catalyst concentration on the decomposition rate of hydrogen peroxide. Example: Use different amounts of manganese dioxide and measure oxygen gas production over time.
How does the surface area of calcium carbonate influence its reaction rate with hydrochloric acid? Example: Compare reaction rates using powdered, crushed, and whole calcium carbonate pieces.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Studying the effect of light intensity on the photochemical decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. Example: Expose hydrogen peroxide to different light intensities and measure oxygen release.
How does pH influence the rate of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction, such as catalase with hydrogen peroxide? Example: Test how quickly bubbles form when mixing hydrogen peroxide with potato extract at different pH levels.
2. Acid-Base Chemistry & pH Studies

These topics explore acids, bases, and their real-world applications.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Comparing the buffering capacity of different antacids using titration.
Example: Neutralize different antacid brands with hydrochloric acid and measure pH changes.
How does temperature impact the pH of a buffer solution?
Example: Measure the pH of a buffer at different temperatures and observe variations.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Investigating the effect of carbonation levels on the acidity of soft drinks.
Example: Measure the pH of sodas before and after shaking to release COâ‚‚.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Measuring the effect of dilution on the pH of strong and weak acids.
Example: Dilute hydrochloric acid and ethanoic acid at different ratios and record pH values.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
How do different acids affect the corrosion rate of metals?
Example: Immerse iron nails in hydrochloric, sulfuric, and ethanoic acids and measure mass loss over time.
3. Electrochemistry & Redox Reactions

These topics examine electricity and oxidation-reduction reactions.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Investigating the impact of electrolyte concentration on the efficiency of an electrochemical cell. Example: Test how different salt concentrations affect the voltage of a simple lemon battery.
How does temperature influence the voltage output of a voltaic cell?
Example: Measure voltage from a zinc-copper cell at different temperatures.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
The effect of electrode material on the efficiency of an electrolysis reaction.
Example: Compare the rate of hydrogen gas production using graphite vs. copper electrodes.
Studying the effect of different salt bridges on galvanic cell performance.
Example: Use potassium nitrate, sodium chloride, and agar salt bridges and compare cell voltages.
How does changing the anode and cathode affect the rate of metal deposition in electroplating? Example: Electroplate copper onto iron nails and measure mass changes.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
4. Organic Chemistry & Biochemical Reactions

These topics focus on carbon-based molecules and biological chemistry.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Investigating the oxidation of alcohols using potassium dichromate. Example: React ethanol, propanol, and butanol with potassium dichromate and observe color changes.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
How does light exposure affect the degradation of Vitamin C in orange juice?
Example: Store orange juice in light and dark conditions, then test Vitamin C content using iodine titration.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Comparing the effectiveness of natural vs. synthetic antioxidants in preventing oxidation. Example: Test how Vitamin E and BHT (a synthetic antioxidant) slow down apple browning.
The effect of different cooking methods on the vitamin C content in vegetables.
Example: Measure vitamin C levels in boiled, steamed, and raw spinach.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Investigating the impact of different solvents on the extraction efficiency of plant-based essential oils. Example: Extract mint oil using water, ethanol, and hexane, then compare yields.
5. Thermochemistry & Energetics

These topics explore heat energy changes in chemical reactions.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
How does the concentration of a solution affect its enthalpy change during neutralization? Example: Mix different concentrations of hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide and record temperature changes.
Investigating the impact of different fuel types on energy released during combustion. Example: Burn ethanol, propane, and butane and measure temperature increases in water.
How does pressure affect the boiling point and enthalpy of vaporization of water? Example: Measure boiling points at different altitudes or using a vacuum pump.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Increase the relationship between bond enthalpy and combustion efficiency of different hydrocarbons.
Example: Compare heat released when burning methane, ethane, and propane.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Comparing the calorific value of different edible oils.
Example: Burn olive, coconut, and sunflower oil and measure the heat energy released.
6. Environmental Chemistry & Green Chemistry

These topics examine sustainable chemistry and environmental impact.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Investigating the effect of pollutants on the pH of rainwater.
Example: Collect rainwater samples from urban and rural areas and compare pH levels.
How do different soil types affect the leaching of heavy metals?
Example: Test how lead ions filter through sand, clay, and loam.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
Studying the efficiency of activated charcoal in removing impurities from water.
Example: Pass dyed water through activated charcoal and measure color reduction.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
How does ocean acidification impact the solubility of calcium carbonate in seawater? Example: Immerse chalk in seawater with different COâ‚‚ levels and measure mass loss.
Comparing the effectiveness of biodegradable vs. non-biodegradable plastics in decomposition. Example: Observe the breakdown of corn-based plastic vs. traditional plastic over time.
Grading Rubrics (Chemistry IA Criteria Breakdown)
S. No. | Criterion | Marks |
---|---|---|
A | Personal Engagement | 2 |
B | Exploration | 6 |
C | Analysis | 6 |
D | Evaluation | 6 |
E | Communication | 4 |
IB Chemistry IA topics with examples provide a wide range of choices for your investigation. Each topic includes practical topics to help you visualize your experiment.
Chemistry IA Topic Structure for Maximum Marks
Introduction – Research question, background info, hypothesis.
Methodology – Detailed procedure, control of variables, materials.
Data Collection & Analysis – Tables, graphs, uncertainty calculations.
Evaluation & Conclusion – Error analysis, limitations, improvements.
Additionally, Chemistry IA Resource: How to write IB Chemistry IA that impresses your examiner
https://cliffscientificworld.com/https-ib-chemistry-ia-internal-assessment/
I hope this helps! If you need help refining your research question or structuring your IA, feel free to reach out. We are happy to assist!
Would you like more guidance on experimental design, rese
Choosing a great IB Chemistry Internal Assessment (IA) topic is key to scoring well. Below are 100% unique topics, along with examples to help you understand how to design your experiment.
Choosing a strong Chemistry IA topic crucial for maximizing your score. Your Chemistry IA topic should be focused, measurable, and rooted in clear scientific principles. Here’s everything you need to get started.
If you’re searching for engaging IB Chemistry IA topics with examples, choosing a relevant and original idea is crucial for a high-scoring investigation. Below is a list of topics that cover various chemistry fields, ensuring both depth and feasibility.
Chemistry IA Topics
1. Reaction Kinetics & Rate of Reaction

These topics focus on how various factors influence the speed of chemical reactions.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
- How does changing the temperature influence the reaction rate between sodium thiosulfate and hydrochloric acid?
- Example: Measure the time it takes for a cross beneath a beaker to disappear as sulfur forms in different temperatures.
- Investigating the impact of catalyst concentration on the decomposition rate of hydrogen peroxide.
- Example: Use different amounts of manganese dioxide and measure oxygen gas production over time.
- How does the surface area of calcium carbonate influence its reaction rate with hydrochloric acid?
- Example: Compare reaction rates using powdered, crushed, and whole calcium carbonate pieces.
- Studying the effect of light intensity on the photochemical decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.
- Example: Expose hydrogen peroxide to different light intensities and measure oxygen release.
- How does pH influence the rate of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction, such as catalase with hydrogen peroxide?
- Example: Test how quickly bubbles form when mixing hydrogen peroxide with potato extract at different pH levels.
2. Acid-Base Chemistry & pH Studies

These topics explore acids, bases, and their real-world applications.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
- Comparing the buffering capacity of different antacids using titration.
- Example: Neutralize different antacid brands with hydrochloric acid and measure pH changes.
- How does temperature impact the pH of a buffer solution?
- Example: Measure the pH of a buffer at different temperatures and observe variations.
- Investigating the effect of carbonation levels on the acidity of soft drinks.
- Example: Measure the pH of sodas before and after shaking to release COâ‚‚.
- Measuring the effect of dilution on the pH of strong and weak acids.
- Example: Dilute hydrochloric acid and ethanoic acid at different ratios and record pH values.
- How do different acids affect the corrosion rate of metals?
- Example: Immerse iron nails in hydrochloric, sulfuric, and ethanoic acids and measure mass loss over time.
3. Electrochemistry & Redox Reactions

These topics examine electricity and oxidation-reduction reactions.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
- Investigating the impact of electrolyte concentration on the efficiency of an electrochemical cell.
- Example: Test how different salt concentrations affect the voltage of a simple lemon battery.
- How does temperature influence the voltage output of a voltaic cell?
- Example: Measure voltage from a zinc-copper cell at different temperatures.
- The effect of electrode material on the efficiency of an electrolysis reaction.
- Example: Compare the rate of hydrogen gas production using graphite vs. copper electrodes.
- Studying the effect of different salt bridges on galvanic cell performance.
- Example: Use potassium nitrate, sodium chloride, and agar salt bridges and compare cell voltages.
- How does changing the anode and cathode affect the rate of metal deposition in electroplating?
- Example: Electroplate copper onto iron nails and measure mass changes.
4. Organic Chemistry & Biochemical Reactions

These topics focus on carbon-based molecules and biological chemistry.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
- Investigating the oxidation of alcohols using potassium dichromate.
- Example: React ethanol, propanol, and butanol with potassium dichromate and observe color changes.
- How does light exposure affect the degradation of Vitamin C in orange juice?
- Example: Store orange juice in light and dark conditions, then test Vitamin C content using iodine titration.
- Comparing the effectiveness of natural vs. synthetic antioxidants in preventing oxidation.
- Example: Test how Vitamin E and BHT (a synthetic antioxidant) slow down apple browning.
- The effect of different cooking methods on the vitamin C content in vegetables.
- Example: Measure vitamin C levels in boiled, steamed, and raw spinach.
- Investigating the impact of different solvents on the extraction efficiency of plant-based essential oils.
- Example: Extract mint oil using water, ethanol, and hexane, then compare yields.
5. Thermochemistry & Energetics

These topics explore heat energy changes in chemical reactions.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
- How does the concentration of a solution affect its enthalpy change during neutralization?
- Example: Mix different concentrations of hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide and record temperature changes.
- Investigating the impact of different fuel types on energy released during combustion.
- Example: Burn ethanol, propane, and butane and measure the temperature increase in water.
- How does pressure affect the boiling point and enthalpy of vaporization of water?
- Example: Measure boiling points at different altitudes or using a vacuum pump.
- The relationship between bond enthalpy and combustion efficiency of different hydrocarbons.
- Example: Compare heat released when burning methane, ethane, and propane.
- Comparing the calorific value of different edible oils.
- Example: Burn olive, coconut, and sunflower oil and measure the heat energy released.
6. Environmental Chemistry & Green Chemistry

These topics examine sustainable chemistry and environmental impact.
Chemistry IA Topics with Examples:
- Investigating the effect of pollutants on the pH of rainwater.
- Example: Collect rainwater samples from urban and rural areas and compare pH levels.
- How do different soil types affect the leaching of heavy metals?
- Example: Test how lead ions filter through sand, clay, and loam.
- Studying the efficiency of activated charcoal in removing impurities from water.
- Example: Pass dyed water through activated charcoal and measure color reduction.
- How does ocean acidification impact the solubility of calcium carbonate in seawater?
- Example: Immerse chalk in seawater with different COâ‚‚ levels and measure mass loss.
- Comparing the effectiveness of biodegradable vs. non-biodegradable plastics in decomposition.
- Example: Observe the breakdown of corn-based plastic vs. traditional plastic over time.
Grading Rubrics (Chemistry IA Criteria Breakdown)
S. No. | Criterion | Marks |
---|---|---|
A | Personal Engagement | 2 |
B | Exploration | 6 |
C | Analysis | 6 |
D | Evaluation | 6 |
E | Communication | 4 |
Final Thoughts
IB Chemistry IA topics with examples provide a wide range of choices for your investigation. Each topic includes practical topics to help you visualize your experiment.
Chemistry IA Topic Structure for Maximum Marks
Introduction – Research question, background info, hypothesis.
Methodology – Detailed procedure, control of variables, materials.
Data Collection & Analysis – Tables, graphs, uncertainty calculations.
Evaluation & Conclusion – Error analysis, limitations, improvements.
Additionally, Chemistry IA Resource: How to write IB Chemistry IA that impresses your examiner
https://cliffscientificworld.com/https-ib-chemistry-ia-internal-assessment/
I hope this helps! If you need help refining your research question or structuring your IA, feel free to reach out. We are happy to assist!