Question

Calculate the number of moles of each reactant. Identify the limiting reaction in the reaction.

a) 2
b) 3
c) 4
d) 5

Answer 1

To identify the limiting reactant and calculate the number of moles, balance the equation, convert given data to moles, compare mole ratios, and calculate moles and mass of product based on the limiting reactant.

Step-by-step explanation:

To calculate the number of moles of each reactant and identify the limiting reactant, follow these steps:

1. Balance the chemical equation for the reaction.
2. Convert the given information (mass or volume) into moles using molarity or molar mass as appropriate.
3. Compare the mole ratio of the reactants to the ratio in the balanced chemical equation to determine which reactant is limiting.
4. Calculate the number of moles of product that can be obtained from the limiting reactant.
5. Convert the number of moles of product to mass of product if required.

The limiting reactant is the one that will run out first, thus limiting the amount of product that can be formed. To identify it, divide the number of moles of each reactant by its stoichiometric coefficient from the balanced equation. The reactant with the smallest mole ratio is the limiting reactant.