Zinc Iodine reaction

[sarahswaheli]

Hi, I just performed a lab where I mixed two grams of zinc and two grams of Iodine in methanol, heated, decanted etc. I got 2.6690 grams of zinc iodide product. So, I am not understanding the statement:
"The properties of a chemical compound are the averages of the elements that make up the compound" Is this true? I know I sound dumb, sorry I am a botany person. Also, what is the simplest formula for zinc iodide? and what would the balance equation be? One more little thing. The mass of the products do not equal the mass of the reactants, is that because iodine is the limiting reagent? I don't see how this corresponds to the law of conservation.
I am sorry, I know this is silly but I'm dyin over here and need some help.
Thanks, Sarah

[Borek]

Originally Posted by sarahswaheli

"The properties of a chemical compound are the averages of the elements that make up the compound" Is this true?

No, it is blatantly wrong.

Also, what is the simplest formula for zinc iodide?

Zn is bivalent, iodine in iodides is monovalent (to be more precise they both form ions, Zn2+ and I-).

The mass of the products do not equal the mass of the reactants, is that because iodine is the limiting reagent?

Mass of products is always equal to mass of reactants - but in case of limiting reagent not all reactants were used. What was a limiting reagent depends on the starting masses of zinc and iodine. It may also happen that there are some losses during reaction.

Best,
Borek