Final answer:
The balanced chemical equation for the reaction between iron (II) chloride and sodium phosphate produces iron (II) phosphate and sodium chloride. The theoretical mass of sodium chloride is calculated using stoichiometry, and the percentage yield is determined by comparing the actual and theoretical masses. Improvements to reaction conditions may increase the yield of sodium chloride.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chemical Reaction and Yield Calculation
The chemical reaction between iron (II) chloride and sodium phosphate can be represented with a balanced chemical equation. In this reaction, iron (II) phosphate precipitates and sodium chloride remains in aqueous solution. Based on the stoichiometry of the balanced equation, the theoretical mass of sodium chloride can be calculated.
To balance the equation, we need to ensure the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation. The reaction is a double-displacement (or metathesis) reaction and can be balanced as follows:
3 FeCl2(aq) + 2 Na3PO4(aq) → Fe3(PO4)2(s) + 6 NaCl(aq)
Using the molar masses of the reactants and products, we can calculate the theoretical yield of sodium chloride. To find the theoretical mass, we first determine the limiting reagent and then use the stoichiometry of the balanced equation to calculate the mass of sodium chloride that should form.
The percentage yield is calculated by taking the actual mass of sodium chloride produced, dividing it by the theoretical mass, and multiplying by 100%.
To improve the yield of sodium chloride, one could optimize reaction conditions, such as ensuring complete mixing of reactants or minimizing the loss of products during the recovery process.