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's calculated using stoichiometry and represents the ideal outcome if the reaction proceeds perfectly.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the theoretical yield formula:

Where:

• \( \text{moles limiting} \) — Moles of the limiting reagent (mol)
• \( \text{stoich} \) — Stoichiometric ratio of product to limiting reagent
• \( \text{MW} \) — Molecular weight of the product (g/mol)

Explanation: The equation calculates the maximum possible mass of product based on the complete conversion of the limiting reactant.

3. Importance of Theoretical Yield

Details: Theoretical yield is crucial for determining reaction efficiency (actual yield vs theoretical yield), planning chemical syntheses, and calculating percent yields in laboratory and industrial settings.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter moles of limiting reagent in mol, stoichiometric ratio (product:limiting reagent), and molecular weight of product in g/mol. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between theoretical and actual yield?
A: Theoretical yield is the calculated maximum possible, while actual yield is what you actually obtain from the reaction (always ≤ theoretical).

Q2: How do I find the limiting reagent?
A: Compare mole ratios of all reactants to the reaction stoichiometry - the one that would produce the least product is limiting.

Q3: What is percent yield?
A: Percent yield = (actual yield / theoretical yield) × 100%, measuring reaction efficiency.

Q4: Why is my actual yield lower than theoretical?
A: Possible reasons include incomplete reactions, side reactions, product loss during purification, or measurement errors.

Q5: Can theoretical yield be greater than 100%?
A: No, but percent yield can exceed 100% if impurities are present or measurement errors occur.