Final answer:
To determine the limiting reactant, compare the amounts of each reactant and calculate the moles of product formed. The reactant that produces the smallest amount of product is the limiting reactant.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the limiting reactant in a chemical reaction, you need to compare the amounts of each reactant and calculate how much product can be formed with each reactant. In the given reaction 2Al(s) + 3Cl₂(g) → 2AlCl₃(s), you would start by calculating the number of moles of aluminum in 6.0 grams and how many moles of AlCl₃ would be formed. Then, calculate the number of moles of chlorine in 3.8 grams and how many moles of AlCl₃ would be formed. Whichever reactant produces the smallest amount of product is the limiting reactant, and the other reactant is in excess.