Chemistry
Chemistry
Problem
The combustion reaction 2C₂H₆(g) + 7O₂(g) → 4CO₂(g) + 6H₂O(g) is carried out at 298 K and 1.00 atm. Carbon dioxide is produced at a rate of 250 mL s⁻¹ (measured at the same temperature and pressure). Calculate the mass rate, in g min⁻¹, at which O₂ is being consumed.Intuitive explanation
This problem connects reaction stoichiometry to real-time consumption rates—the key is recognizing that volume flow rates of gases at the same temperature and pressure are proportional to mole ratios. Use the balanced equation to find how many moles of O₂ react for each mole of CO₂ produced, then convert the CO₂ volume rate to a molar rate and scale it to O₂, finally converting to mass per minute.
Intuitive explanation
This problem connects reaction stoichiometry to real-time consumption rates—the key is recognizing that volume flow rates of gases at the same temperature and pressure are proportional to mole ratios. Use the balanced equation to find how many moles of O₂ react for each mole of CO₂ produced, then convert the CO₂ volume rate to a molar rate and scale it to O₂, finally converting to mass per minute.