Final answer:
The reactants are phosphorus (P4) and oxygen (O2), and the product is phosphorus pentoxide (P4O10). The balanced chemical equation is P4(s) + 5O2(g) → 2P2O5(s). For 0.200 mol each of P4 and O2, oxygen is the limiting reactant. Optimal conditions for maximum yield should consider controlled temperatures and an excess of reactants.
Step-by-step explanation:
The preparation of phosphorus pentoxide, which is used to produce phosphoric acid for cola soft drinks, involves a chemical reaction where phosphorus is burned in oxygen.
a) Reactants and Products
The reactants are phosphorus (P4) and oxygen (O2), while the product is phosphorus pentoxide (P4O10).
b) Balancing the Chemical Equation
The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is P4(s) + 5O2(g) → 2P2O5(s).
c) Moles and Limiting Reactants
When 0.200 mol of P4 and 0.200 mol of O2 react, the limiting reactant can be determined by using the stoichiometry of the balanced equation. Here, 1 mole of P4 requires 5 moles of O2 to fully react. Since we have 0.200 moles of each, oxygen is the limiting reactant.
d) Optimizing Conditions for Maximum Yield
To optimize conditions for maximum yield, the reaction should be conducted under controlled temperatures and excess phosphorus, following Le Chatelier's Principle to shift the equilibrium towards the desired product, P2O5.