Limiting and Excess Reactants

In this investigation, you will predict and observe a limiting reactant. You will use the
single displacement reaction of aluminum with aqueous copper(II) chloride.

Note that copper(II) chloride, CuCl2, is light blue in aqueous solution. This is due to the
Cu 2+(aq) ion. Aluminum chloride is colorless in aqueous solution.

Materials
250 ml beaker
stirring rod
0.51 g CuCl2
0.25 g Al foil
Safety precautions
The reaction mixture may get hot. Do not hold the beaker as the reaction proceeds.
Do not pour solids down the drain!
Procedure
Place the weighed aluminum foil and copper(II) chloride into the 250 mL beaker.
Add about 50 mL of water to the beaker. Stir the mixture until the copper(II) chloride
is completely dissolved.
Record the color of solution and any metal that is present at the beginning of the
reaction.
Record any color changes as the reaction proceeds. Stir occasionally with the stirring
rod.
Record the color of all substances at the end of the reaction.
When the reaction is complete, decant the liquid portion into the sink and place the
solids in the trash.

Data/Observations -record the appearance of all chemicals during the following times.

Before-

During-

After-

Report Sheet- Limiting Reactant

Name_____________________________

Partners name______________________

Date______________________________

Purpose-

Data-

Before-

During-

After-

Conclusion- What is the limiting reactant based on observations. Explain answer.

Calculations-
Show balanced equation and calculations to support the answer above.

Limiting Reactant- Prelab

Name__________________________________________
 1) How can observations tell you which is the limiting reactant in the reaction of
aluminum with aqueous copper(II) chloride?

2) Write out the balanced equation and the color of each reactant and product.

3) In a reaction in which there is an excess and limiting reactant, which chemical

dictates the amount of product that can be formed?

4) Consider the reaction mixture below reacts as follows:

Hydrogen and oxygen water

Show the product mixture