Formula Used:
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Definition: The solute free mole fraction (X₀) is the mole fraction of the solute in the solvent (liquid) at the column inlet, calculated on a solute-free basis.
Purpose: This calculation is important in chemical engineering processes, particularly in absorption and stripping columns where solute concentrations need to be tracked.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula converts the standard mole fraction to a solute-free basis by accounting for the solvent fraction.
Details: Using solute-free basis calculations simplifies mass balance equations in separation processes by eliminating the solvent from the calculations.
Tips: Enter the liquid inlet mole fraction (x₁) as a decimal between 0 and 1 (e.g., 0.05 for 5%).
Q1: Why use solute-free mole fraction instead of regular mole fraction?
A: Solute-free basis simplifies calculations in separation processes where the solvent quantity remains constant.
Q2: What's the range of valid input values?
A: The liquid inlet mole fraction must be between 0 (no solute) and 1 (pure solute, though this would make the denominator zero).
Q3: How is this different from mass fraction?
A: This is a mole fraction calculation, which uses molecular counts rather than mass weights.
Q4: When would I need this calculation?
A: Primarily in designing absorption towers, stripping columns, or other mass transfer operations.
Q5: What if I get an extremely large result?
A: This occurs as x₁ approaches 1, indicating nearly pure solute where the solute-free basis becomes less meaningful.