Potassium superoxide (KO2) can simulate a plant-type action by consuming carbon dioxide (CO2) gas and releasing oxygen (O2) gas. The other product is potassium carbonate (K2CO3). When the equation for this process is balanced, it shows that:
◦ 3 mol oxygen is produced per mol KO2 consumed
◦ 2 mol KO2 is consumed per mol carbon dioxide
◦ moles of reactants equals moles of product
◦ 3 g of oxygen is produced per 2 g CO2 consumed
◦ moles of products exceed moles of reactants