1. What is Volumetric Flow Rate for First Order Reaction?

Definition: This calculator determines the volumetric flow rate of reactants into a reactor vessel based on the vessel volume and adjusted retention time.

Purpose: It helps chemical engineers design and analyze continuous flow reactors for first-order reactions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( υ \) — Volumetric flow rate (m³/s)
• \( V_i \) — Volume of vessel i (m³)
• \( t_{rC2}' \) — Adjusted retention time of component 2 (seconds)

Explanation: The vessel volume is divided by the adjusted retention time to determine the required flow rate to maintain the desired residence time.

3. Importance of Volumetric Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Proper flow rate calculation ensures optimal reactor performance, reaction completion, and efficient use of reactor volume.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the vessel volume in cubic meters and the adjusted retention time in seconds. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is adjusted retention time?
A: It's the actual time a component spends in the column, excluding the time taken by the mobile phase to travel through the column.

Q2: How is this different from space time?
A: Space time is the reciprocal of this value, representing the average time a fluid element spends in the reactor.

Q3: What units should I use?
A: The calculator uses SI units (m³ for volume, seconds for time), but you can convert from other units before input.

Q4: Does this apply to batch reactors?
A: No, this calculation is specifically for continuous flow reactors.

Q5: How does temperature affect this calculation?
A: Temperature affects reaction rates but not this basic flow rate calculation unless density changes significantly.