Question

If 50 atoms of carbon react with 200 molecules of oxygen gas, then what will be the limiting reagent?

Answer 1

Answer: Carbon will act as a limiting reagent.

Explanation: When carbon atom reacts with oxygen molecule, it  forms carbon dioxide. The reaction follows:

$C(g)+O_2(g)\rightarrow CO_2(g)$

The stoichiometric ratio of carbon and oxygen is 1 : 1, hence 50 atoms of carbon will react with 50 molecules of oxygen.

As, the molecules of oxygen are in excess, therefore it is considered as excess reagent.

Carbon atom is considered as a limiting reagent as it is present in limited amount and it limits the formation of product.