Chapter 12, Problem 59A

a.

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To explain the general shape of the graph.

Concept Introduction: The formation of products is dependent on the number of reactants. The reactant that is consumed first is known as the limiting reactant, when this reactant is consumed completely, then there will be no more formation of products.

Answer to Problem 59A

From the graph, it is interpreted that sodium is an excess reagent while chlorine is a limiting reagent.

Explanation of Solution

The graph is plotted between a mass of sodium versus the mass of chlorine produced in grams. In this graph the varying masses of metal i.e., sodium reacts with a constant mass of chlorine. Thus, sodium metal is present in an excess amount making chlorine a limiting reagent.

Therefore, from the graph, it is interpreted that sodium is an excess reagent while chlorine is a limiting reagent.

b.

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To estimate the amount of chlorine gas from the graph.

Concept Introduction: The graph is plotted between a mass of sodium versus the mass of chlorine produced in grams.

Answer to Problem 59A

The graph shows a linear increase first and then becomes constant which infers that the mass of sodium chloride becomes constant.

Explanation of Solution

In this graph the varying masses of metal i.e., sodium reacts with a constant mass of chlorine. Thus, sodium metal is present in an excess amount making chlorine a limiting reagent. The graph shows a linear increase first and then becomes constant, which infers that the mass of sodium chloride becomes constant as its mass-produced is dependent on the mass of chlorine i.e., it behaves as a limiting reagent.