Calculating CH3OH Yield: Limiting Reactions of CO and H2 in Chemical Reaction

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In summary, the reaction CO(g) + 2 H2(g) -> CH3OH produces one mole of CH3OH for every two moles of H2 and one mole of CO. In order to produce 32g of CH3OH, you would need 4g of H2 and 28g of CO. The ratio between the reactants is 1:2, meaning that if there is an excess of one reactant, it will limit the reaction and result in a yield less than the theoretical maximum. It is important to try solving the problem yourself before seeking help.
  • #1
starsun
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CH3OH is produced via the reaction CO(g) + 2 H2(g) -> CH3OH

A mixture of 1.20 g H2 and 7.45g CO are allowed to react.

What is the yield of CH3OH? [Assume theoretical yield in g is what is wanted here]
 
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  • #2
one mole of CO reacts with two moles of H2 to give one mole of CH3OH.
Can you take it from here.
 
  • #3
nope, sorry
 
  • #4
According to the reaction, there's a 1:2 ratio between the reactants. Which means you need exactly 2 moles of hydrogen gas to react with 1 mole of carbon monoxide (translated to mass terms, this means you need 4g of hydrogen gas and 28 g of CO to form 32 g of methanol). How much do you have and how much of what is going to limit the reaction to a value less than the maximum possible yield if both reactants were in stoichiometric proportions? If you can answer these questions, you will be through.

Cheers
Vivek
 
  • #5
starsun said:
nope, sorry
Well you'd better give it a shot, if you want to be helped. We can not help you, unless you show that you are making an effort to solve this by yourself, and have given it your best shot.

There are rules on this forum : we don't do homework for people.
 

1. What is a limiting reaction?

A limiting reaction is a chemical reaction where one of the reactants is present in a smaller amount than the other reactants. This reactant limits the amount of product that can be formed.

2. How do you determine the limiting reactant?

To determine the limiting reactant, you need to compare the amount of each reactant present to the balanced chemical equation. Whichever reactant is present in the smallest amount is the limiting reactant.

3. What happens to the excess reactant in a limiting reaction?

The excess reactant is not completely used up in a limiting reaction. It is left over once the limiting reactant is completely consumed. This excess reactant does not contribute to the formation of the product and is usually removed from the reaction mixture.

4. How does a limiting reaction affect the yield of a reaction?

A limiting reaction determines the maximum amount of product that can be formed. This means that the yield of the reaction will be limited by the amount of the limiting reactant. If there is insufficient amount of the limiting reactant, the yield of the reaction will be lower.

5. Can a limiting reaction be manipulated to increase the yield of a reaction?

Yes, a limiting reaction can be manipulated to increase the yield of a reaction. This can be achieved by increasing the amount of the limiting reactant or by finding a way to convert the excess reactant into the limiting reactant during the reaction process.

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