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Praxis Chemistry: Content Knowledge (5245) Practice Test

140 questions available

The Praxis Chemistry: Content Knowledge (5245) examination is a rigorous, nationally recognized certification assessment for prospective secondary school chemistry teachers. Administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS), this 2.5-hour, 120-question computer-delivered test validates a candidate's mastery of the core principles and practices essential for effective chemistry instruction. Achieving a passing score, as determined by individual state licensing boards, is a critical step toward obtaining state certification or licensure to teach chemistry at the secondary level. The exam's comprehensive scope ensures that certified educators possess not only deep subject-matter expertise but also the ability to apply chemical concepts in pedagogical contexts. This certification serves as a benchmark of professional competency, signaling to school districts, administrators, and peers that an educator meets high standards of content knowledge and is prepared to foster student understanding in a critical STEM discipline.

Certification exam
125 Exam questions
2 hours 30 minutes Time Limit
Practice bank
140 Practice Questions
2 hours 20 minutes Practice Time
Start Practice
The bank 140 Practice questions checked against the official objectives.
qf-import140 practice questions14 answers with a checkable referenceBlueprint 1.0Bank updated 2026-05-04

Sample Questions

Try a few questions to see what the full exam is like.

14 of 140 answers carry a checkable reference.

Nomenclature; Chemical Composition; Bonding and Structure

A student says CCl4 is polar because each C-Cl bond is polar. Which teacher response is best?

Scientific Inquiry and Social Perspectives of Science

A school board compares coal, nuclear, wind, and solar power for a chemistry-and-society lesson. Which statement best models a balanced chemistry-based tradeoff?

Chemical Reactions; Periodicity

A student heats calcium carbonate and observes formation of calcium oxide and carbon dioxide. Which reaction type is represented?

Chemical Reactions; Periodicity

A redox problem includes MnO4- forming MnO2 in basic solution. What happens to manganese's oxidation state?

Chemical Reactions; Periodicity

A teacher asks which element set contains transition elements only. Which set should be selected?

Why This Certification Opens Doors

Earning a passing score on the Praxis Chemistry 5245 exam is a non-negotiable credential for professional advancement in secondary chemistry education. It is the definitive industry standard for demonstrating subject-matter expertise to state licensing agencies and prospective employers. This certification directly impacts career trajectory by qualifying candidates for licensure, a mandatory requirement for public school teaching positions. Beyond entry-level qualification, it establishes professional credibility, enhances resume competitiveness, and is often a prerequisite for career ladder advancements, such as mentoring roles or department leadership. In an educational landscape increasingly focused on STEM proficiency, this certification validates an educator's capacity to deliver accurate, engaging, and standards-aligned chemistry instruction, thereby impacting both individual career growth and the quality of science education for students.

Exam Blueprint

Each domain is weighted to match the real certification exam, so a full practice simulation predicts your result.

01Chemical Reactions; Periodicity
20%
02Nomenclature; Chemical Composition Structure
15%
03Solutions and Solubility; Acid-Base Chemistry
15%
04Basic Principles of Matter and Energy; Thermodynamics
14%
05Atomic and Nuclear Structure
12%
06Scientific Inquiry and Social Perspectives of Science
12%
07Scientific Procedures and Techniques
12%

Exam Details ETS-5245 | 2 hours 30 minutes

Exam Code ETS-5245
Vendor qf-import
Time Limit 2 hours 30 minutes
Exam questions 125

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the passing score for the Praxis Chemistry 5245 exam?

There is no universal passing score. Each state's department of education or licensing board sets its own required passing score. Candidates must check the specific requirements for the state in which they intend to become certified. ETS provides a list of state requirements on its website, but verifying directly with the state agency is always recommended.

What content areas are covered on the exam?

The exam is structured around six major content categories: (1) Nature and Impact of Science and Engineering, (2) Principles and Models of Matter and Energy, (3) Chemical Composition, Bonding, and Structure, (4) Chemical Reactions and Periodicity, (5) Solutions and Acid-Base Chemistry, and (6) Biochemistry and Nuclear Chemistry. Questions assess knowledge, application, and analysis within these domains.

How should I prepare for the exam?

Effective preparation involves a multi-faceted approach: thoroughly review the official test blueprint and study companion from ETS, utilize undergraduate chemistry textbooks and notes for foundational knowledge, complete practice questions and full-length practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format and timing, and identify weak areas for targeted study. Many candidates benefit from forming study groups or using specialized test-prep resources.

Can I use a calculator on the exam?

Yes. An on-screen scientific calculator is provided for use during the test. A handheld calculator is not permitted. It is crucial to practice using the specific on-screen calculator provided in the ETS tutorials before test day to ensure efficiency during the exam.

How long are scores valid for certification purposes?

Score validity is determined by individual state licensing boards, not by ETS. Typically, scores are accepted for certification for a period of 5-10 years, but policies vary significantly. Candidates must confirm the score validity period and any other recency requirements with their state's certification office.