Question

a + b → c
part 1 of 2
in the diagram above that represents the reaction, which reactant, b or a, is the limiting reagent? select the single best answer.
b is limiting
a is limiting
both b and a are limiting
neither b nor a are limiting
part 2 of 2
assuming complete reaction, what is the total number of c molecules produced? (the atomic arrangement in c is ab.)
molecules

Explanation:

Step1: Count the number of A and B atoms

From the diagram, there are 7 A atoms and 5 B atoms.

Step2: Determine the limiting reagent

The reaction is \(A + B
ightarrow C\) (where \(C = AB\)). The stoichiometry is \(1:1\). Since \(B\) is fewer in number (5 vs 7 of \(A\)), \(B\) will be consumed completely first.

Step3: Calculate the number of C molecules

Since the ratio of \(A:B:C\) is \(1:1:1\) and \(B\) is the limiting reagent with 5 atoms, the number of \(C\) molecules produced is equal to the number of \(B\) atoms consumed.

Answer:

Part 1: B is limiting
Part 2: 5 molecules