Chapter 4, Problem 140SAE

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The maximum number of potassium sulfate produced must be chosen for the reaction between potassium permanganate and potassium iodide in the presence of sulfuric acid.

Concept introduction:

In a chemical reaction, the limiting reactant is a reactant that limits the formation of product and the amount of product formed after the completion of reaction depends on the amount of reactant. The other reactant is present in excess and some amount of it remains unreacted even after the completion of reaction.

One mole potassium permanganate reacts with 5 moles of potassium iodide and 4 moles of sulfuric acid.

Thus, potassium iodide which is supplied exactly 5 moles is the limiting reagent.