Reactant Concentration Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines the concentration of a reactant remaining after a second-order reaction occurs in a plug flow reactor (PFR) or infinite series of continuous stirred-tank reactors (CSTRs).
Purpose: It helps chemical engineers design reactors and predict reaction outcomes for second-order kinetics.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula accounts for the second-order reaction kinetics where the rate depends on the square of the reactant concentration.
Details: Accurate prediction of reactant concentration helps in reactor sizing, process optimization, and ensuring desired conversion rates are achieved.
Tips: Enter the initial concentration, rate constant, and space time. All values must be positive numbers. The rate constant is typically determined experimentally.
Q1: What is a plug flow reactor (PFR)?
A: A PFR is a reactor where fluid flows through with no mixing in the axial direction but complete mixing in the radial direction.
Q2: How does second-order reaction differ from first-order?
A: In second-order reactions, the reaction rate depends on the square of the reactant concentration, while first-order depends linearly on concentration.
Q3: What is space time in reactor design?
A: Space time (τ) is the time required to process one reactor volume of feed at specified conditions.
Q4: Can this calculator be used for batch reactors?
A: No, this specific formula applies to plug flow reactors or infinite series of CSTRs. Batch reactors have different design equations.
Q5: What are typical units for second-order rate constants?
A: For second-order reactions, rate constants typically have units of m³/(mol·s) or L/(mol·s).