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Limiting Reactant Calculator

Determine the limiting reactant from moles and stoichiometric coefficients.

Introduction

Limiting Reactant Calculator — Determine the limiting reactant from moles and stoichiometric coefficients. Enter Moles of each reactant (comma-separated), Coefficients (comma-separated), Labels (comma-separated) to get an instant, accurate result.

Formula

For each reactant, divide moles available by its stoichiometric coefficient; the reactant with the smallest resulting ratio is the limiting reactant.

Step-by-step

  1. Enter the Moles of each reactant (comma-separated).
  2. Enter the Coefficients (comma-separated).
  3. Enter the Labels (comma-separated).
  4. Click Calculate to see your result instantly.

Real-world example

Example: With Moles of each reactant (comma-separated) = 4,3, Coefficients (comma-separated) = 2,1, Labels (comma-separated) = A,B, the Limiting Reactant Calculator gives Ratios: 2, 3, Limiting Index: 0, Limiting Reactant: A.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the smallest mole-to-coefficient ratio indicate the limiting reactant?
That ratio represents how many "reaction units" worth of that reactant are available — whichever runs out first (smallest ratio) stops the reaction and limits how much product can form.
What happens to the reactant that is not limiting?
It is the excess reactant — some of it remains unreacted once the limiting reactant is fully consumed.
What inputs does the Limiting Reactant Calculator need?
You'll need to provide: Moles of each reactant (comma-separated), Coefficients (comma-separated), Labels (comma-separated). All fields use sensible defaults, so you can see a working example immediately and then adjust the values to match your own numbers.
How accurate is the Limiting Reactant Calculator?
The Limiting Reactant Calculator applies the formula exactly as calculated — For each reactant, divide moles available by its stoichiometric coefficient; the reactant with the smallest resulting ratio is the limiting reactant. — so results are precise for the inputs you provide. Accuracy depends on entering correct, realistic input values.
Is the Limiting Reactant Calculator free to use?
Yes, the Limiting Reactant Calculator is completely free, requires no signup, and runs instantly in your browser.

About the Limiting Reactant Calculator

The Limiting Reactant Calculator uses a real, verifiable formula — For each reactant, divide moles available by its stoichiometric coefficient; the reactant with the smallest resulting ratio is the limiting reactant. — so results are accurate every time, not an approximation.