Determining the Limiting Reagent in the Reaction Between Magnesium Oxide (MgO) and Dilute Sulfuric Acid (H2SO4)

The concept of the limiting reagent is crucial in chemical reactions, ensuring that the maximum yield of products is achieved. In this article, we will walk through the process of identifying the limiting reagent when magnesium oxide (MgO) reacts with dilute sulfuric acid (H2SO4).

Understanding the Balanced Chemical Equation

The balanced chemical equation for the reaction between magnesium oxide and sulfuric acid is as follows:

[ text{MgO} text{H}_2text{SO}_4 rightarrow text{MgSO}_4 text{H}_2text{O} ]

Step 1: Calculate Moles of Each Reactant

First, we need to calculate the moles of each reactant using their respective molar masses.

Magnesium Oxide (MgO):

Known Molar Mass: 24.31 g/mol (Mg) 16.00 g/mol (O) 40.31 g/mol

Number of moles of MgO frac{600 text{ g}}{40.31 text{ g/mol}} approx 14.87 text{ mol}

Sulfuric Acid (H2SO4):

Known Molar Mass: 1.01 g/mol (H) * 2 32.07 g/mol (S) 16.00 g/mol (O) * 4 98.09 g/mol

Number of moles of H2SO4 frac{980 text{ g}}{98.09 text{ g/mol}} approx 9.98 text{ mol}

Step 2: Determine the Stoichiometry of the Reaction

The balanced equation shows that the reaction requires 1 mole of MgO for every 1 mole of H2SO4. The stoichiometric ratio is 1:1.

Step 3: Compare the Mole Ratio

Using the mole ratio from step 2, we can compare the available moles of each reactant:

Moles of MgO available: 14.87 mol Moles of H2SO4 available: 9.98 mol

According to the stoichiometric ratio, we need the same number of moles of each reactant to proceed with the reaction.

Step 4: Identify the Limiting Reagent

Since we have more moles of MgO (14.87 mol) than H2SO4 (9.98 mol), the sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is the limiting reagent. It will be completely consumed first in the reaction, determining the amount of product formed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dilute sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is the limiting reagent in the reaction between 600g of magnesium oxide and 980g of dilute sulfuric acid. This understanding is critical for optimizing chemical processes and maximizing the yield of desired products.