What would be the limiting reactant if 50 grams of sodium cyanide were reacted with 70 grams of copper carbonate?

1 Answer
anor277
Apr 26, 2016

#2NaC-=N + CuCO_3 rarr Na_2CO_3 + Cu(C-=N)_2#

Explanation:

From the reaction above, there should 2 equiv of sodium cyanide per equiv of copper carbonate.

#"Moles of sodium cyanide"# #=# #(50.0*g)/(49.1*g*mol^-1)#.

#"Moles of copper carbonate"# #=# #(70.0*g)/(123.56*g*mol^-1)#.

Given the stoichiometry it is pretty clear as to which reagent is in excess, and which is in deficiency.

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