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Stoichiometry & Chemical Reactions

Mole Ratio

The proportion between the amounts of any two substances in a reaction, taken directly from the balanced equation's coefficients.

Formula / equation n_A : n_B = a : b
Unit Dimensionless

In depth

The mole ratio is the bridge that carries a calculation from one substance to another, and it is the only step in stoichiometry that requires the equation itself. Used as a conversion factor with the required substance on top, it makes the unwanted unit cancel cleanly.

Examples in the real world

In 2H₂ + O₂ → 2H₂O the H₂:O₂ ratio is 2:1, so 0.50 mol of oxygen consumes 1.0 mol of hydrogen.