Safety boundary
Use paper-token models, supplied calculations, and simulations only. No unsupervised chemical reactions are required.
Explicit chemistry instruction
Theoretical yield is the maximum product predicted by stoichiometry if the limiting reactant is fully converted according to the model.
The calculation begins with the limiting reactant, follows the mole ratio, then converts product moles into the requested unit.
Theoretical yield is a model prediction, not a guarantee that a real experiment reaches that amount.
Vocabulary: theoretical yield; limiting reactant; product moles; molar mass; prediction.
Worked example
If 1.00 mol O₂ is limiting in 2H₂+O₂→2H₂O, theoretical yield is 2.00 mol H₂O, about 36.0 g.
Guided question
A reaction predicts 0.75 mol product with molar mass 80 g/mol. What is theoretical yield in grams?
Independent work
- Solve three theoretical-yield problems.
- Show the full conversion chain.
- State the limiting reactant used in each.
Misconception check
Theoretical yield must come from the limiting reactant, not from averaging predictions from both reactants.
Formative check
What does theoretical yield represent?
Reveal response
The stoichiometric maximum under the stated model.
Mentor evidence conference
Ask Archaemenes to audit the limiting-reactant logic, conversion chain, and evidence interpretation.
Teacher guidance
Foundation: Use a conversion-roadmap template.
Core: Calculate theoretical yield in moles and grams.
Extended: Analyze how uncertainty in reactant amount affects predicted yield.