The decomposition of Al2O3 to form pure aluminum (Al) along with the release of oxygen (O2) gas can be represented by the following chemical reaction:
2Al2O3 → 4Al + 3O2
Based on the reaction stoichiometry:
2 moles of aluminum oxide decomposes to form 4 moles of pure aluminum
Therefore, if 29.0 moles of aluminum is recovered, then the moles of aluminum oxide required will be:
= 29.0 moles Al * 2 moles Al2O3/4 moles Al
= 14.5 moles of Al2O3
