Theoretical Yield and Excess Reactant

Question

If 165.0g of nitrogen is reacted with 2.10g of hydrogen, what is the theoretical yield of the reaction? What is the excess reactant? What is the limiting reactant? Show your work

Answer 1

Use these steps to help you answer this problem.

Step 1: Create a balanced equation for this synthesis reaction.

Here is a tip to help you get started N₂ + H₂ -> NH₃ (*Don't forget to balance both sides*)

Step 2: Use Stoichiometry to convert the given mass of your first reactant(N₂) to mass of your product(NH₃). (grams to moles, moles to moles, moles to mass)

Step 3: Use Stoichiometry to convert the given mass of your second reactant(H₂) to mass of your product(NH₃).(grams to moles, moles to moles, moles to mass)

Step 4: Compare the two product values(from steps 2 & 3) to find out which value is larger(this will be your excess reactant) & which reactant is smaller (this will be your limiting reactant).

Step 5:Once you determine which reactant is limiting, use that mass of your product calculated as your theoretical yield.

Hope this helps!