Theoretical Yield Calculator

Use this Theoretical Yield Calculator to estimate the maximum amount of product that can form from a known limiting reagent. Enter the reagent mass and molar mass, or enter its moles directly, then provide the coefficients from the balanced chemical equation and the product molar mass.

Theoretical Yield Method

1. Convert the limiting reagent to moles:

Limiting reagent moles = reagent mass ÷ reagent molar mass

2. Apply the stoichiometric mole ratio:

Product moles = limiting reagent moles × (product coefficient ÷ reagent coefficient)

3. Convert product moles to mass:

Theoretical yield = product moles × product molar mass

Worked Example

Suppose the balanced reaction is:

2A → 3B

You have 10 g of limiting reagent A. Its molar mass is 50 g/mol, and the molar mass of product B is 80 g/mol.

Limiting reagent moles = 10 ÷ 50 = 0.20 mol

Product moles = 0.20 × (3 ÷ 2) = 0.30 mol

Theoretical yield = 0.30 × 80 = 24 g

The maximum predicted yield is 24 g of product B.

Important Notes

• Use coefficients from a correctly balanced chemical equation.
• The limiting reagent must already be identified.
• Enter the molar mass of the exact chemical form being used.
• Theoretical yield assumes complete reaction under ideal conditions.
• The calculator does not account for reagent purity, side reactions, incomplete conversion, or laboratory losses.

Actual yield is often lower than theoretical yield because real reactions may be incomplete or product may be lost during separation, transfer, drying, or purification.

Sources

• OpenStax Chemistry 2e — Reaction Stoichiometry
• OpenStax Chemistry 2e — Reaction Yields