CBSE Class 12 Chemistry Syllabus 2026, Check Exam Pattern

Chemistry is a core subject for students in Class 12, especially for those aspiring to pursue careers in engineering, medicine, and other science-related fields. As the CBSE Class 12 Chemistry syllabus for 2026 is revised, it's crucial for students to be familiar with its structure and contents to plan their preparation efficiently. This article will guide you through the complete CBSE Class 12 Chemistry syllabus for 2026, helping you understand the important topics, exam pattern, and tips for effective preparation.

CBSE Class 12 Chemistry Syllabus 2026 Overview

Theoretical exam for Class 12 Chemistry syllabus is divided into 10 units covering, Inorganic, & Organic Chemistry are given as follows :

CBSE Class 12 Chemistry Exam Syllabus 2026

CBSE Class 12 Exam Related Resources and Study Material

Important Resources for CBSE Board Class 12 Exam 2026 :

• CBSE Class 12 Board Exam Preparation Guide
• CBSE Class 12 Date Sheet 2026 – Subject-wise Exam Schedule
• CBSE Class 12 Biology Syllabus 2026 (Updated Curriculum)
• CBSE Class 12 Physics Syllabus 2026 – Chapter-wise Topics
• CBSE Class 12 Mathematics Syllabus 2026 – Complete Course Details
• CBSE Class 12 Previous Year Question Papers with Solutions
• CBSE Class 12 Sample Papers 2026 (All Subjects)
• CBSE Class 12 Mock Test Papers with Answer Solutions

CBSE Class 12 Chemistry Syllabus 2025 Overview

The Chemistry syllabus for CBSE Class 12 aims to provide students with a thorough understanding of the subject, building on concepts learned in Class 11. It is divided into three sections:

• Theory (70 Marks)
• Practical (30 Marks)

The theory paper is further subdivided into different units, covering a wide range of topics like Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, and Environmental Chemistry.

Theory: Paper Structure

The theory paper for Chemistry has a well-structured format, designed to evaluate the understanding and application of concepts. It is divided into the following sections:

• Section A: This section contains 1-mark multiple-choice questions (MCQs), short answer type questions, and questions with very short answers.
• Section B: Includes 2-mark questions, where students are required to write brief answers.
• Section C: Comprises long-answer questions (5 marks each), where students must explain concepts in detail and include relevant examples and calculations.
• Section D: Case-study-based questions that test the application of concepts.

CBSE Class 12 Chemistry Unit Wise Syllabus 2025

Unit 1: Solid State

Key Concepts: Types of solids, crystallography, properties of solids, packing in solids, and the laws of crystallography.

Important Topics:

• Classification of solids
• Crystal lattices and unit cells
• Packing efficiency
• Defects in solids

Unit 2: Solutions

Key Concepts: Types of solutions, concentration expressions, solubility, and colligative properties.

Important Topics:

• Types of solutions: Liquid in liquid, gas in liquid, etc.
• Molarity, molality, normality
• Raoult’s Law and its applications
• Colligative properties: Boiling point elevation, freezing point depression

Unit 3: Electrochemistry

Key Concepts: Conductance, electrochemical cells, Nernst equation, and applications of electrochemistry.

Important Topics:

• Conductivity and molar conductivity
• Galvanic cells, electrode potential
• Nernst equation
• Batteries and fuel cells

Unit 4: Chemical Kinetics

Key Concepts: Rate of reaction, factors affecting reaction rates, and integrated rate equations.

Important Topics:

• Rate of reaction
• The rate law and order of reactions
• Collision theory
• Activation energy and Arrhenius equation

Unit 5: Surface Chemistry

Key Concepts: Adsorption, catalysis, and surface tension.

Important Topics:

• Adsorption isotherms
• Types of catalysis
• Colloids and their applications
• Surface area and properties of colloidal systems

Unit 6: General Principles and Processes of Isolation of Elements

Key Concepts: Methods of extraction and refining of metals.

Important Topics:

• Ore dressing
• Methods of extraction: Froth flotation, leaching, etc.
• Refining methods: Electrolytic refining

Unit 7: p-Block Elements

Key Concepts: Group-wise properties and compounds of p-block elements.

Important Topics:

• Group 15: Nitrogen and phosphorus
• Group 16: Oxygen, sulfur, and their compounds
• Group 17: Halogens and their compounds
• Group 18: Noble gases and their compounds

Unit 8: d- and f-Block Elements

Key Concepts: Transition and inner transition elements, their properties, and coordination compounds.

Important Topics:

• Properties of d-block elements
• Coordination compounds and their applications
• Color, magnetic properties, and catalytic activity

Unit 9: Coordination Compounds

Key Concepts: Ligands, coordination number, and types of isomerism.

Important Topics:

• Ligands and their types
• Coordinate bonds
• Types of isomerism in coordination compounds
• Importance of coordination compounds in biological systems

Unit 10: Haloalkanes and Haloarenes

Key Concepts: Structure, properties, and reactions of haloalkanes and haloarenes.

Important Topics:

• Types of halogen compounds
• Nucleophilic substitution reactions
• Preparation and properties of haloalkanes and haloarenes

Unit 11: Alcohols, Phenols, and Ethers

Key Concepts: Organic compounds containing functional groups - OH and O.

Important Topics:

• Preparation and properties of alcohols, phenols, and ethers
• Reactions of alcohols, phenols, and ethers
• Applications of these compounds in daily life

Unit 12: Aldehydes, Ketones, and Carboxylic Acids

Key Concepts: Organic compounds containing carbonyl groups and carboxyl groups.

Important Topics:

• Nomenclature and structure of aldehydes and ketones
• Reactions of aldehydes, ketones, and carboxylic acids
• Uses of aldehydes and ketones in industry

Unit 13: Organic Compounds Containing Nitrogen

Key Concepts: Organic compounds with nitrogen atoms - amines, cyanides, and isocyanides.

Important Topics:

• Preparation and properties of amines, azo compounds, and diazonium salts
• Reactions of amines
• Uses of nitrogen compounds

Unit 14: Biomolecules

Key Concepts: Carbohydrates, proteins, enzymes, and nucleic acids.

Important Topics:

• Structure and functions of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids
• Vitamins and hormones
• Enzyme catalysis

Unit 15: Polymers

Key Concepts: Types, properties, and applications of polymers.

Important Topics:

• Types of polymers: Addition and condensation polymers
• Industrial applications of polymers
• Biodegradable and non-biodegradable polymers

Unit 16: Chemistry in Everyday Life

Key Concepts: Applications of chemistry in daily life, including food, cleaning agents, and medicines.

Important Topics:

• Chemicals used in food preservation, detergents, and medicines
• Drug action and antibiotics
• Chemistry in the environment

Students Can Also Check: CBSE Class 12 Study Resources

CBSE Class 12 Chemistry Practical Syllabus 2025

The practical exam is an essential component of the Chemistry subject, contributing 30 marks to the overall score. It includes the following components:

• Volumetric Analysis: Titration methods involving acids and bases, redox reactions, and other related procedures.
• Preparation of Solutions: Making solutions of known concentration.
• Organic Preparation: Synthesis of organic compounds such as esters, soaps, or salts.
• Identification of Functional Groups: Testing for functional groups in given organic compounds.
• Qualitative Analysis: Detection of ions and elements in inorganic compounds.

Note: Students should familiarize themselves with the experiments and practice them thoroughly to ensure a good performance in the practical exams.

Tips for Effective Preparation

• Understand Concepts: Chemistry is all about understanding the underlying principles. Focus on understanding reactions and mechanisms.
• Practice Regularly: Regular practice of numerical problems and writing chemical equations will enhance your skills.
• Revise Key Topics: Some topics like Organic Chemistry and Physical Chemistry require thorough revision. Focus on areas that carry more marks.
• Take Mock Tests: Regular mock tests will help you familiarize yourself with the exam format and improve your time management skills.

By understanding and following the CBSE Class 12 Chemistry syllabus for 2025, students can ensure a strong foundation in Chemistry and be well-prepared for their exams. Focus on mastering concepts, practicing regularly, and revising thoroughly to achieve academic success.

CBSE Class 12 Chemistry Syllabus 2026 FAQs

1. What are the major topics covered in the CBSE Class 12 Chemistry syllabus 2026?

Answer: The CBSE Class 12 Chemistry syllabus 2026 includes the following major topics:

• Physical Chemistry: Solid State, Solutions, Electrochemistry, Chemical Kinetics, and Surface Chemistry.
• Inorganic Chemistry: General Principles and Processes of Isolation of Elements, p-Block Elements, d- and f-Block Elements, and Coordination Compounds.
• Organic Chemistry: Haloalkanes and Haloarenes, Alcohols, Phenols, Ethers, Aldehydes, Ketones, Carboxylic Acids, Organic Compounds Containing Nitrogen, Biomolecules, Polymers, and Chemistry in Everyday Life.

2. What is the weightage of the practical exam in the CBSE Class 12 Chemistry syllabus 2026?

Answer: The practical exam for CBSE Class 12 Chemistry carries a weightage of 30 marks out of the total 100 marks. The practical component includes experiments, qualitative and quantitative analysis, preparation of compounds, and viva voce.

3. Are there any changes in the CBSE Class 12 Chemistry syllabus for 2026 compared to previous years?

Answer: The CBSE may introduce slight modifications to the syllabus each year. Students are advised to refer to the official CBSE website or their school's updates to get the latest version of the syllabus. Ensure you follow the 2026 syllabus for the most accurate and up-to-date topics.

4. How should I prepare for the Organic Chemistry section in the CBSE Class 12 syllabus 2026?

Answer: To excel in Organic Chemistry:

• Focus on understanding reaction mechanisms and functional group properties.
• Memorize important reactions and their conditions.
• Practice naming compounds using IUPAC rules.
• Solve previous years’ questions to get familiar with commonly asked topics.

5. How many units are included in the CBSE Class 12 Chemistry theory syllabus 2026?

Answer: The CBSE Class 12 Chemistry theory syllabus consists of 10 units, divided across Physical, Inorganic, and Organic Chemistry. Each unit has varying weightage, so prioritize topics based on their marks distribution.