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Definition: The rate constant for a zero-order reaction in a Mixed Flow Reactor (MFR) is equal to the rate of the reaction when the rate is independent of the reactant concentration.
Purpose: This calculation helps chemical engineers determine the reaction rate constant needed for designing and optimizing mixed flow reactors.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The rate constant is calculated by multiplying the conversion by the initial concentration, then dividing by the space time.
Details: Accurate determination of the rate constant is crucial for reactor design, process optimization, and predicting reaction behavior in continuous flow systems.
Tips: Enter the reactant conversion (as decimal), initial concentration in mol/m³, and space time in seconds. All values must be positive, with conversion between 0 and 1.
Q1: What is a zero-order reaction?
A: A reaction where the rate is independent of the reactant concentration, maintaining a constant rate throughout the reaction.
Q2: What is space time in a MFR?
A: The time required to process one reactor volume of fluid at entrance conditions, calculated as reactor volume divided by volumetric flow rate.
Q3: How does conversion affect the rate constant?
A: Higher conversion values will result in higher calculated rate constants when other parameters are held constant.
Q4: What are typical units for the rate constant?
A: For zero-order reactions, the units are typically mol/m³·s or similar concentration per time units.
Q5: When would I use this calculation?
A: When designing or analyzing continuous stirred-tank reactors (CSTRs) for zero-order reactions.