Unit 4 · Chemical Reactions
Lesson 31 of 91

4.3 Representations of Reactions

01Particle diagrams

Before-and-after drawings must conserve atoms. Use them to find limiting reactant: whatever runs out first.

Leftover particles in the 'after' picture are excess reactant.

02Notebook box

Count atoms by type in both boxes; they must match.

Worked example: 4 H₂ + 3 O₂ drawn → 4 H₂O formed, 1 O₂ left over. H₂ limits.

Key takeaways
  • ✦Atoms match before and after.
  • ✦Leftovers = excess.
  • ✦Limiting runs out first.
Quick check

Did it stick?

1.N₂ + 3H₂ → 2NH₃. A box holds 6 H₂ and 3 N₂. Limiting?

2.Particle diagrams must conserve…

3.Leftover reactant is called…