Unlocking the Chemistry: Silicon Carbide Production

What is the limiting reactant in the reaction of silicon dioxide with graphite to produce silicon carbide?

Is it:

A. Silicon dioxide (SiO2)

B. Graphite (C)

C. Silicon carbide (SiC)

D. Carbon monoxide (CO)

The limiting reactant is graphite (C)

Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of chemistry? Let's explore the process of producing silicon carbide, an abrasive material that plays a crucial role in various industries. When silicon dioxide reacts with graphite, an interesting chemical reaction occurs to yield silicon carbide and carbon monoxide.

Understanding the Limiting Reactant

In the given reaction equation:

SiO2 + 3C → SiC + 2CO

We have 2 moles of SiO2 and 5 moles of C. To determine the limiting reactant, we need to compare the stoichiometric ratio of the reactants. In this case, the reaction between SiO2 and C requires a 1:3 ratio.

Since 2 moles of SiO2 would need 6 moles of C for complete reaction, the presence of only 5 moles of C makes it the limiting reactant in this reaction. Graphite (C) limits the formation of silicon carbide and determines the amount of product that can be produced.