1. What is Concentration of Radical in Stationary Chain Reactions?

Definition: This calculator determines the steady-state concentration of radicals in chain reactions based on reaction rate constants and reactant concentration.

Purpose: It helps chemical engineers and researchers understand and predict radical concentrations in chain reaction systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( [R]_{SCR} \) — Concentration of radical (mol/m³)
• \( k_1 \) — Reaction rate constant for initiation step (m³/(mol·s))
• \( [A] \) — Concentration of reactant A (mol/m³)
• \( k_w \) — Rate constant at wall (1/s)
• \( k_g \) — Rate constant within gaseous phase (1/s)

Explanation: The numerator represents radical formation rate, while the denominator accounts for radical termination at walls and in the gas phase.

3. Importance of Radical Concentration Calculation

Details: Accurate radical concentration estimation is crucial for controlling reaction rates, predicting product distributions, and ensuring process safety.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the reaction rate constants and reactant concentration. All values must be > 0. Default values are provided for common conditions.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a stationary chain reaction?
A: A chain reaction where radical formation and termination rates are balanced, maintaining constant radical concentration.

Q2: How do I determine the rate constants?
A: Rate constants are typically determined experimentally or from literature for specific reaction systems.

Q3: What affects the wall rate constant (k_w)?
A: Surface area, wall material, temperature, and radical type influence k_w.

Q4: When is this model applicable?
A: For systems where radical termination occurs primarily at walls and in the gas phase.

Q5: How does temperature affect the results?
A: All rate constants are temperature-dependent, so calculations should use values appropriate for the reaction temperature.