In the reaction H2 + 1/2 O2 → H2O, which is the limiting reagent?
H2
O2
H2O
None of these
Correct answer: O2
Solution
The limiting reagent is determined by the stoichiometric ratio. Since 1 mole of H2 reacts with 0.5 moles of O2, if O2 is present in lesser proportion relative to H2, it will limit the reaction.