Formula Used:
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Definition: This calculator determines the time required to form product B from reactant A in a system of three parallel first-order reactions.
Purpose: It helps chemists and chemical engineers understand reaction kinetics in complex parallel reaction systems.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the time based on the relative rates of the three parallel reactions and the initial reactant concentration.
Details: Accurate time estimation is crucial for reaction optimization, process design, and understanding product distribution in parallel reaction systems.
Tips: Enter all rate constants (k1, k2, k3) in 1/s and initial concentration (A0) in mol/m³. All values must be ≥ 0.
Q1: What are parallel reactions?
A: Parallel reactions occur when a reactant can follow multiple reaction pathways simultaneously to form different products.
Q2: How does the rate constant affect the time?
A: Higher rate constants for competing reactions will decrease the time for product B formation as they consume reactant A faster.
Q3: What if one of the rate constants is zero?
A: If k2 or k3 is zero, it means there are fewer parallel reactions competing for reactant A.
Q4: Can this be used for higher order reactions?
A: No, this formula is specifically for first-order parallel reactions.
Q5: What units should be used for concentration?
A: The calculator uses mol/m³, but you can use any consistent concentration unit as long as all inputs use the same unit.