Question

Determine the maximum number of moles of product that can be produced from 7.0 mol al and 8.0 mol cl2 according to the equation 2al + 3cl2 sa002-1.jpg 2 alcl3. describe in words the method used. then show the calculation(s).

Answer 1

The balanced chemical reaction is

2al + 3cl2 = 2alcl3

To determine the maximum amount of product, we need to determine which is the limiting reactant. Then, use the initial amount of that reactant to calculate the amount of the product that would be produced. We do as follows:

7 mol Al (3 mol Cl2 / 2 mol Al) = 10.5 mol Cl2
8 mol Cl2 ( 2 mol Al / 3 mol Cl2) = 5.3 mol Al
Thus, it is Cl2 that is the limiting reactant.

8 mol Cl2 ( 2 mol AlCl3 / 3 mol Cl2) = 5.3 moles of AlCl3 is produced