A gas phase reaction is carried out between 7 dm3 of carbon monoxide and 3 dm3 of oxygen. What is the maximum volume of carbon dioxide formed, assuming that the reaction goes to completion?

Question

2CO (g) + O2 (g) → 2CO2 (g)

All measured at the same conditions of temperature and pressure.

Answer 1

Looking at the mole ratios provided by the coefficients in the reaction, O₂ is the limiting reactant because 3 dm³ would combine with just 6 dm³ of CO. Again from the mole ratios, 3 dm³ of O₂ would produce at most 6 dm³ of CO₂.