Chapter 9.3, Problem 4RQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The difference between theoretical yield and actual yield and reason for this difference needs to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

Theoretical yield is the maximum amount of product that can be produced in a chemical reaction.

Actual yield is the actual amount of product that can be produced in a real experiment. To determine the actual yield, actual experimental data is required.

Answer to Problem 4RQ

Since, the reaction does not proceed to completion, fewer products are produced.

That is why, the actual yield is always lower than the theoretical yield.

Explanation of Solution

Theoretical yield is the maximum amount of product that can be produced in a chemical reaction. It is called the maximum, since the calculation of theoretical yield is based on the balanced chemical reaction which is hypothetical.

The value of the theoretical yield is dependent on the amount of the limiting reactant.

Thus, the theoretical yield can be calculated without performing the chemical reaction.

Actual yield is the actual amount of product that can be produced in a real experiment. To determine the actual yield actual experimental data is required.

For example, If an experiment is performed with a chemical reaction involved, the actual amount of product produced from the given set amount of reactants is the actual yield. Also, the value of actual yield is almost always lower than the theoretical yield.

Because most reactions in real life does not proceed to completion.

Since, the reaction does not proceed to completion, fewer products are produced.

That is why, the actual yield is always lower than the theoretical yield.

It is difficult to make sure that only the concerned reaction will occur. Usually, when performing real life chemical reactions, side reaction occurs simultaneously. This also causes the actual yield to be lower than the theoretical yield.

The ratio of the actual yield and theoretical yield is called the percent yield. It is usually calculated in an experiment to determine the efficiency of the chemical process.

Conclusion

It is difficult to make sure that only the concerned reaction will occur. Usually, when performing real life chemical reactions, side reaction occurs simultaneously. This also causes the actual yield to be lower than the theoretical yield.

The ratio of the actual yield and theoretical yield is called the percent yield. It is usually calculated in an experiment to determine the efficiency of the chemical process.