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Definition: This calculator determines the initial reactant concentration needed for a zero-order reaction in a mixed flow reactor based on rate constant, space time, and conversion.
Purpose: It helps chemical engineers design reactors and understand reaction kinetics for zero-order reactions in continuous stirred-tank reactors (CSTR).
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The product of rate constant and space time is divided by the desired conversion to determine the required initial concentration.
Details: Accurate initial concentration calculation ensures proper reactor design, optimal reaction conditions, and desired product yield.
Tips: Enter the rate constant (positive value), space time (positive value), and conversion (between 0 and 1). All values must be > 0.
Q1: What is a zero-order reaction?
A: A reaction where the rate is independent of the reactant concentration, remaining constant throughout the reaction.
Q2: What is space time in a mixed flow reactor?
A: The time required to process one reactor volume of feed under specified conditions, equal to reactor volume divided by volumetric flow rate.
Q3: How does conversion affect the initial concentration?
A: Higher conversion requirements demand higher initial concentrations to achieve the same reaction rate in a zero-order reaction.
Q4: What are typical units for zero-order rate constant?
A: For concentration in mol/m³ and time in seconds, the rate constant has units of mol/m³·s.
Q5: Can this calculator be used for other reaction orders?
A: No, this formula is specific to zero-order reactions. Different equations apply for first-order or second-order reactions.