The chemical reaction of phenol with zinc dust is given by:
C6H5OH+ZnΔC6H6+ZnO
Product X is benzene (C6H6).
Molar mass of phenol (C6H5OH) = 6×12+6×1+16=94 g mol−1
Number of moles of phenol taken = 944.7=0.05 mol
From the stoichiometry of the reaction, 1 mole of phenol produces 1 mole of benzene.
Theoretical moles of X formed = 0.05 mol
Since the reaction goes to 60% completion, the actual moles of X formed is:
0.05×10060=0.03 mol
This can be written as 3×10−2 mol.
Answer: 3