Actual Yield Calculator
Quickly relate actual, theoretical, and percent yields for chemical reactions by solving the classic yield equations.
Result (Percent yield = (Actual / Theoretical) × 100)
75
How to Use This Calculator
Choose the unknown
Decide whether you need percent yield, actual yield, or theoretical yield.
Enter the known yields
Provide the other two values. Ensure units match (usually grams or moles).
Review the calculation
The calculator applies the yield formulas and displays the rearranged equation used.
Apply the result
Use the computed yield to analyze efficiency or to plan reactant quantities for future runs.
Formula
Percent yield = (Actual / Theoretical) × 100
Rearranged: Actual = (Percent × Theoretical) / 100 and Theoretical = (Actual × 100) / Percent.
Example
Actual yield 45 g from theoretical 60 g gives percent yield = 45/60 × 100 = 75%.
Full Description
Actual yield reflects real laboratory output, while theoretical yield represents the maximum possible product based on stoichiometry. Percent yield compares the two, revealing reaction efficiency or losses.
This calculator helps students and professionals analyze reaction outcomes and plan synthesis steps by interconverting the three yield metrics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can percent yield exceed 100%?
No. Values above 100% indicate measurement issues, impurities, or incomplete drying of product.
Do units matter?
Units cancel when computing percent yield. Ensure actual and theoretical yields use the same unit (grams, moles, etc.).
How is theoretical yield determined?
Use stoichiometric calculations from balanced equations, accounting for limiting reagents.
Why is actual yield lower?
Side reactions, incomplete conversions, mechanical losses, or purification steps reduce actual yield.
Can I use this for multi-step syntheses?
Yes. Compute percent yield for each step or overall by using net actual and theoretical yields.