Formula Used:
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Definition: The distribution coefficient of Carrier Liquid is defined as the concentration of carrier liquid in the extract phase divided by the concentration of carrier liquid in the raffinate phase.
Purpose: It helps in understanding the partitioning behavior of the carrier liquid between two immiscible phases.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The distribution coefficient is calculated by dividing the activity coefficient in the raffinate phase by the activity coefficient in the extract phase.
Details: This coefficient is crucial in liquid-liquid extraction processes to determine the efficiency of separation and the partitioning of components between phases.
Tips: Enter the activity coefficients for both raffinate and extract phases. Both values must be greater than 0.
Q1: What does the distribution coefficient tell us?
A: It indicates how a carrier liquid will distribute itself between two immiscible liquid phases at equilibrium.
Q2: What's a typical value range for this coefficient?
A: Values typically range from 0.1 to 10, depending on the system and conditions.
Q3: How are activity coefficients determined?
A: They are usually determined experimentally or calculated using thermodynamic models.
Q4: What affects the distribution coefficient?
A: Temperature, pressure, and the nature of the solvent system all affect the coefficient.
Q5: Can this coefficient be greater than 1?
A: Yes, it simply means the carrier liquid prefers the extract phase over the raffinate phase.