In the reaction 2SO2 + O2 → 2SO3 followed by SO3 + H2O → H2SO4, if 8.0 mol of SO2 and excess O2 and H2O are reacted, what is the theoretical yield of H2SO4 (in moles)?

• A. 8.0 mol
• B. 16.0 mol
• C. 4.0 mol
• D. 2.0 mol

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the balanced chemical equations involved in the problem: first, 2SO2 + O2 → 2SO3, and second, SO3 + H2O → H2SO4.
2. Determine the mole ratio between SO2 and SO3 from the first reaction. According to the equation, 2 moles of SO2 produce 2 moles of SO3, so the ratio is 1:1.
3. Determine the mole ratio between SO3 and H2SO4 from the second reaction. According to the equation, 1 mole of SO3 produces 1 mole of H2SO4.
4. Since the mole ratio from SO2 to SO3 is 1:1 and from SO3 to H2SO4 is also 1:1, the overall mole ratio from SO2 to H2SO4 is 1:1.
5. Use the initial amount of SO2 (8.0 mol) and apply the mole ratio to find the theoretical yield of H2SO4, which will be equal to the moles of SO2 reacted.