Fall 2003

ChE 471 Exam 1

(Closed book & notes, 1 crib sheet allowed)
1.

The irreversible, fist order gas-phase reaction

A = 2B + C

takes place in a constant volume batch autoclave that has a safety disk designed to rupture
when the pressure exceeds 1000 psi. If the rate constant is 0.01 (min-1), how long will it take
to rupture the safety disk if
a)

pure A is charged into the reactor at 500 psi.

b)

the initial mixture in the reactor is at 500 psi and consists of 50% A and 50% inerts.

2.

In the upper atmosphere, in presence of fluorocarbons, chlorine speeds up ozone

decomposition by the following catalytic mechanism:

k1

C O3

k2

CO O

O 2 CO

(1a)

O 2 C

(1b)

Use the pseudo-steady approximation, PSSA, to develop the rate of ozone decomposition due
to the catalytic cycle (1a) + (1b).
Remember that the
C and CO are the active intermediates and that their total
concentration is constant, i.e. C

CO

a)

Can you define the order for that reaction?

b)

If k1

= const.

k2 and [O3] >> [O] what is the simplified rate form? What is the apparent

reaction order?
3.

An autocatalytic elementary reaction

A R

R R

in the liquid phase has at a fixed temperature a rate constant of k = 1 (L/mol min). The liquid
feed consists of CAo = 1 (mol/L) and CRo = 0.1 (mol/L).
a)

To reach 50% conversion of A in the smallest volume continuous flow reactor

operated at steady state, would you use PFR or CSTR or a reactor combination?

b)

How about if 95% conversion is required?

Fully document your answers.

4.
a)

Find the minimum number of CSTRs in series to yield an outlet conversion within

5% of that achieved in PFR of equal total volume for a first order irreversible reaction

A
b)

R, k

PFR

1.

For the above liquid phase first order reaction, if you have a PFR and CSTR (both of

the same volume) how would you connect them in series (which should come first) to
maximize the conversion? What is the best exit conversion if k

1.