The reaction of chlorine gas with solid phosphorus (P4) produces solid phosphorus pentachloride. When 63.5 g chlorine reacts with 28.5 g P4, which reactant is limiting?

Answer 1

Write and balance the equation.
Convert grams given to mols P and mols Cl2.

Convert mols P to mols PCl5.
Convert mols Cl2 to mols PCl5.
The SMALLER number of mols is the correct value for mols PCl5 formed and the reagent providing that number is the limiting reagent.

Answer 2

chloride