Theoretical Yield
The maximum mass of product that could be obtained from a given quantity of limiting reagent, assuming complete conversion.
Formula / equation
m = n(limiting) × ratio × M
Unit
g
In depth
It is a purely calculated quantity derived from the balanced equation and is never achieved in practice, because reactions may be reversible, side reactions compete and product is lost during transfer and purification. It nonetheless provides the benchmark against which real performance is judged.
Examples in the real world
From 10.0 g of CaCO₃, the theoretical yield of CaO is 5.6 g on complete decomposition.