Final answer:
To find the limiting reactant in this reaction, we need to calculate the number of moles for each reactant and compare them to the stoichiometric ratio in the balanced equation. Based on the calculations, the limiting reactant is H2O.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the limiting reactant in this reaction, we need to calculate the number of moles for each reactant using their respective molar masses. First, calculate the moles of Ca by dividing its mass (3.23 g) by its molar mass (40.08 g/mol). This gives us 0.0806 mol of Ca. Next, calculate the moles of H2O by dividing its mass (2.33 g) by its molar mass (18.02 g/mol). This gives us 0.129 mol of H2O. According to the balanced equation, the molar ratio between Ca and H2O is 1:2. This means that for every mole of Ca, we need 2 moles of H2O. Since we have 0.0806 mol of Ca, we would need 2 * 0.0806 mol = 0.1612 mol of H2O for complete reaction. However, we only have 0.129 mol of H2O, which is less than the required amount. Therefore, the limiting reactant in this reaction is H2O.