Final answer:
Theoretical number of moles of product can be calculated using stoichiometry.
Step-by-step explanation:
The number of moles of product that should theoretically be made can be determined using the balanced chemical equation and the concept of stoichiometry. In this case, the balanced equation is:
4P4 + 11O2 -> 2P4O10
According to the balanced equation, for every 4 moles of P4, 2 moles of P4O10 are produced. Therefore, for 15.25 moles of P4, the number of moles of product can be calculated as follows:
(15.25 moles P4) x (2 moles P4O10 / 4 moles P4) = 7.625 moles P4O10
So, theoretically, 7.625 moles of product (P4O10) will be made when 15.25 moles of P4 and excess O2 are combined.