chemistry

[littleguy47]

why is the actual yield of a reaction often less than the theoretical yield

[Wtfiknow666]

because with the theoretical value you make assumptions. e.g. that NO reactants are lost in the process.
that all the reactants react to for products or bi-products
but in practice the assumptions dont work as there are always practical errors no matter how careful u r.

hope tht helps

[Robb Phoenix]

Its because a reaction never goes to absolute completion, the reverse reaction always takes place, giving some of the reactants back to us