Question detail
Explain how masses in grams can show which reactant is limiting in a chemical reaction.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Use of amount of substance in relation to masses of pure substances
Question
Explain how masses in grams can show which reactant is limiting in a chemical reaction.
Answer
Convert each reactant mass into an amount in moles using its relative formula mass, then compare those mole amounts with the balanced-equation ratio. The limiting reactant is the reactant that is not present in enough quantity for the required ratio, so it is completely used up first and fixes the maximum mass of product formed.
Explanation
This answer is specific to limiting reactants in terms of masses in grams. It does not choose the smallest mass by inspection; it explains why grams must be converted to moles and compared with the balanced equation before identifying the reactant that runs out first.
Common mistake
Confusing Limiting Reactants with Excess Reactants
Students often think that the limiting reactant is the one that is present in the smallest mass, rather than understanding that it is the reactant that is completely used up in the reaction.
To fix this, students should focus on the definition of a limiting reactant as the one that runs out first, regardless of its mass compared to other reactants.
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