(a) Define the terms theoretical yield, actual yield, and percent yield.

Key Concepts

Theoretical Yield

Theoretical yield refers to the maximum amount of product that can be generated from a given amount of reactants, based on stoichiometric calculations. It assumes complete conversion of reactants to products without any losses or side reactions. This value is calculated using balanced chemical equations and is essential for evaluating the efficiency of a chemical reaction.

Actual Yield

Actual yield is the amount of product that is actually obtained from a chemical reaction, measured experimentally. This value is often less than the theoretical yield due to factors such as incomplete reactions, side reactions, or losses during product recovery. Understanding the actual yield is crucial for assessing the performance of a reaction in practical scenarios.

Percent Yield

Percent yield is a measure of the efficiency of a reaction, calculated by dividing the actual yield by the theoretical yield and multiplying by 100. It provides insight into how effectively reactants are converted into products and helps identify potential issues in the reaction process. A percent yield close to 100% indicates a highly efficient reaction, while lower values suggest room for improvement.