Learning objective
(chemistry only) Calculate atom economy for a reaction to form a desired product from a balanced equation.
Read the explanation, check the common trap, then practise with flashcards and questions.
At a glance
5
Flashcards
7
Questions
Topic
Yield and atom economy of chemical reactions (chemistry only)
Subtopic
Atom economy
Study support
Understand this objective
Short explanation
Atom economy is a measure of the efficiency of a chemical reaction in terms of how much of the starting materials are converted into useful products. It is calculated using the formula: atom economy = (Mr of desired product / sum of Mr of all products) x 100. A high atom economy indicates that a greater proportion of reactants are transformed into the desired product, which is important for sustainability and economic viability. This concept helps chemists evaluate and choose reaction pathways that minimize waste and maximize resource use.
Key concepts
Why it matters
This objective helps connect Atom economy to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for Yield and atom economy of chemical reactions (chemistry only).
Common mistakes
1 linked- Confusing Atom Economy with Percentage Yield: Remember that atom economy measures the efficiency of a reaction in terms of starting materials converted to useful products, while percentage yield compares the actual product obtained to the theoretical maximum. Keep the correction anchored to Atom economy; check formula, substitution, calculation, final answer, and unit where relevant.
Revision tools
Choose how to practise
Flashcards5 linked cards
Flashcard 1 of 5
Practice Questions7 linked questions
Question 1 of 7
Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.
Revision notestopic notes
Open the full topic revision notes when you are ready to review this objective in context.
Open revision notesRelated learning objectives
- (chemistry only) Define yield as the amount of product obtained from a reaction.
Percentage yield
- (chemistry only) Define percentage yield as the actual amount of product obtained compared with the maximum theoretical amount as a percentage.
Percentage yield
- (chemistry only) Calculate percentage yield from actual yield and theoretical yield.
Percentage yield
- (chemistry only) Explain why a reaction may not go to completion because it is reversible.
Percentage yield
- (chemistry only) Explain why some product may be lost when separated from a reaction mixture.
Percentage yield
