1. What is Theoretical Yield?

The theoretical yield is the maximum amount of product that can be produced in a chemical reaction based on the amount of limiting reagent. It assumes perfect efficiency and complete conversion of reactants to products.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the theoretical yield formula:

Where:

• Moles of limiting reagent — Amount of the reactant that will be completely consumed first
• Stoichiometric ratio — Mole ratio of product to reactant from balanced equation
• Molecular weight — Molar mass of the product (g/mol)

Explanation: The calculation determines the maximum possible product based on reaction stoichiometry before accounting for practical losses.

3. Importance of Theoretical Yield

Details: Theoretical yield is crucial for determining reaction efficiency (actual yield/theoretical yield × 100%), planning chemical syntheses, and evaluating process economics.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter moles of limiting reagent, stoichiometric ratio (from balanced equation), and molecular weight of product. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is this different from actual yield?
A: Theoretical yield is the calculated maximum, while actual yield is what you actually obtain in the lab (always ≤ theoretical).

Q2: What is percentage yield?
A: Percentage yield = (actual yield/theoretical yield) × 100%, measuring reaction efficiency.

Q3: Why might actual yield be less than theoretical?
A: Due to incomplete reactions, side reactions, purification losses, or measurement errors.

Q4: How do I find the limiting reagent?
A: Compare mole amounts of reactants to the stoichiometric ratios - the one that produces least product is limiting.

Q5: Does this work for all reaction types?
A: Yes, as long as you have a balanced chemical equation and know the limiting reactant.