During the decomposition of magnesium carbonate, 16 g of magnesium oxide was formed, the reaction yield was 80%

During the decomposition of magnesium carbonate, 16 g of magnesium oxide was formed, the reaction yield was 80% of the theoretically possible, how many grams of magnesium carbonate was taken for the reaction.

The thermal decomposition reaction of magnesium carbonate upon heating is described by the following chemical reaction equation:

MgCO3 = MgO + CO2 ↑;

Let’s calculate the chemical amount of magnesium oxide. To do this, we divide its weight by the mass of 1 mole of the substance.

M MgO = 24 + 16 = 40 grams / mol;

N MgO = 16/40 = 0.4 mol;

The same molar amount of magnesium carbonate should theoretically be taken.

Let’s find its weight taking into account the reaction yield of 80%.

M MgCO3 = 24 + 12 + 16 x 3 = 84 grams / mol;

m MgCO3 = 0.4 x 84 / 0.8 = 42 grams;