The Extent of Reaction, Δξ—Some Nuts and Bolts

Gavin D. Peckham
Department of Chemistry, University of Zululand, Private Bag X 1001, Kwa Dlangezwa 3886, South Africa
J. Chem. Educ., 2001, 78 (4), p 508
DOI: 10.1021/ed078p508
Publication Date (Web): April 1, 2001
History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

The "extent of reaction", Δξ, is inappropriately used in a number of reputable textbooks. This article uses a series of simple numerical examples to clarify the way in which values of Δξ depend on the reaction stoichiometry and the role of limiting reagents. An IUPAC compatible method is suggested whereby values of Δξ may be restricted to a range of 0 to 1, and the advantages of this restriction are discussed.

Keywords (Audience):

Upper-Division Undergraduate

Keywords (Domain):

Physical Chemistry

Keywords (Feature):

Chemical Principles Revisited

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Misconceptions / Discrepant Events

Keywords (Subject):

Equilibrium
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History

  • Received: August 03, 2009

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