CPC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CPC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Why is proper chemical labeling important in a laboratory setting? → To prevent accidents and ensure proper handling
2. Which method is most appropriate for determining the identity of an unknown crystalline solid? → X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD)
3. Which of the following is an example of a Type B uncertainty evaluation in measurement uncertainty estimation? → Using calibration certificate uncertainty values and equipment specifications
4. What type of isomerism is exhibited by [Co(NH3)4Cl2]NO2 and [Co(NH3)4ClNO2]Cl? → Ionization isomerism
5. In FTIR spectroscopy, what is the function of the Michelson interferometer? → To generate an interferogram by combining beams with varying path difference
6. In an octahedral crystal field, which d-orbitals constitute the eg set? → dx²−y² and dz²
7. A secondary container used to store a flammable liquid transferred from its original container must be labeled with at minimum: → The identity of the chemical and appropriate hazard warnings
8. In a quadrupole mass filter, ions are selected by: → Their stable oscillating trajectories under specific DC and RF voltage ratios
9. Which electrochemical technique applies a linearly varying potential and measures the resulting current to identify and quantify redox-active species? → Linear sweep voltammetry
10. What is the hybridization of the central nickel atom in [Ni(CN)4]2−? → dsp2
11. What is the correct IUPAC name for the complex ion [Fe(CN)6]4−? → Hexacyanoferrate(II)
12. An improper chemical storage practice that can lead to a violent reaction is storing: → Concentrated nitric acid next to acetone
13. Which statement correctly describes an ideal gas according to kinetic-molecular theory? → Molecules have negligible volume and no intermolecular forces
14. In analytical chemistry, precision refers to: → The reproducibility of repeated measurements under the same conditions
15. Which process describes the flow of genetic information according to the central dogma of molecular biology? → DNA → RNA → Protein
16. What is the purpose of derivatization in chromatographic analysis? → To convert analytes into more detectable or better-separated forms
17. Eutrophication of water bodies is primarily caused by excess inputs of which nutrients? → Nitrogen and phosphorus
18. In a Diels-Alder reaction, the diene must be in which conformation for the reaction to proceed? → s-cis
19. What is the coordination number of the central metal ion in [Co(NH3)6]3+? → 6
20. The color of transition metal coordination compounds arises primarily from which electronic transition? → d-d transitions
21. How can statistical methods be used in R&D? → To quantify data variability and assess result significance
22. Which reaction mechanism involves the simultaneous breaking and forming of bonds in a single concerted step? → SN2
23. Which of the following best describes a Grignard reagent acting as a nucleophile? → Carbon-metal bond donating electrons to an electrophile
24. Which coenzyme derived from niacin (vitamin B3) is essential for oxidation-reduction reactions in metabolism? → NAD+ / NADH
25. The term 'IDLH' in occupational health refers to a concentration that is: → Immediately dangerous to life or health
26. What does the NFPA 704 blue quadrant on a chemical placard indicate? → Health hazard
27. The isoelectric point (pI) of an amino acid or protein is the pH at which: → The net charge of the molecule is zero
28. Why is temperature control important in chemical analysis? → To ensure consistency and accuracy of results
29. The 'Right-to-Know' principle for laboratory workers means that employees are entitled to information about: → The identities, hazards, and safe handling procedures for chemicals they may be exposed to
30. In spectroscopic method development, 'selectivity' refers to a method's ability to: → Measure the analyte accurately in the presence of other components in the sample