How this calculator works
Actual yield is the product recovered after reaction, isolation and purification. A planned percentage yield estimates this mass but does not predict reaction selectivity or recovery losses. Keep actual and theoretical yields on the same dry, pure-product basis. Values above 100% are allowed so that a contaminated or wet sample can be investigated rather than silently clipped.
Formula
Yield fraction = actual product mass/theoretical product mass. Actual mass = theoretical mass x yield fraction.
Worked example
A theoretical yield of 20 g at 75% gives 15 g actual product. At 50%, an 80 g theoretical yield gives 40 g.
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Frequently asked questions
Why can yield exceed 100%?
Recovered material may contain water, solvent or impurities, or the theoretical yield may be wrong.
Can theoretical yield be zero?
A percentage relative to zero theoretical mass is undefined.
Is percentage yield the same as purity?
No. Purity describes the product composition; percentage yield describes recovery compared with the theoretical maximum.