Reactivity 2.1.4 - the percentage yield is calculated from the ratio of experimental yield to theoretical yield
theoretical yield is usually different (usually greater) from experimental yield
reasons why experimental yield might be lower than theoretical yield:
- incomplete reaction
- side reactions occurring
- the decomposition of reactants / products
- loss of product during purification
- reversible chemical reactions prevention process completion
reasons why experimental yield might be higher than theoretical yield:
- incomplete reaction
- impurities
- product not fully dried