The decomposition of 600 g of calcium carbonate yielded 315 g of calcium oxide. Calculate the mass fraction of its yield.

The decomposition reaction of calcium carbonate when heated is described by the following chemical equation:

CaCO3 = CaO + CO2 ↑;

Let’s calculate the chemical amount of calcium carbonate (limestone). To do this, we divide its weight by the mass of 1 mole of the substance.

M CaCO3 = 40 + 12 + 16 x 3 = 100 grams / mol;

N CaCO3 = 600/100 = 6 mol;

The same molar amount of calcium oxide and carbon dioxide will theoretically be synthesized.

Let’s calculate the mass of calcium oxide. To do this, multiply the amount of the substance by the weight of 1 mole of the substance.

M CaO = 40 + 16 = 56 grams / mol;

m CaO = 56 x 6 = 336 grams;

The reaction yield is 315/336 = 0.9375 = 93.75%;