Convective Mass Transfer Coefficient Of Flat Plate Laminar Flow Using Reynolds Number Calculator

Convective Mass Transfer Coefficient Formula:

\[ k_L = \frac{u_{\infty} \times 0.322}{Re^{0.5} \times Sc^{0.67}} \]

Free Stream Velocity (u∞):

m/s

Reynolds Number (Re):

(dimensionless)

Schmidt Number (Sc):

(dimensionless)

Convective Mass Transfer Coefficient (kL):

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1. What is the Convective Mass Transfer Coefficient?

The Convective Mass Transfer Coefficient (kL) is a function of the geometry of the system and the velocity and properties of the fluid, similar to the heat transfer coefficient. It quantifies the rate of mass transfer between a surface and a fluid in motion.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula for flat plate laminar flow:

\[ k_L = \frac{u_{\infty} \times 0.322}{Re^{0.5} \times Sc^{0.67}} \]

Where:

\( k_L \) — Convective Mass Transfer Coefficient (m/s)
\( u_{\infty} \) — Free Stream Velocity (m/s)
\( Re \) — Reynolds Number (dimensionless)
\( Sc \) — Schmidt Number (dimensionless)

Explanation: This formula calculates the mass transfer coefficient for laminar flow over a flat plate, considering fluid velocity and dimensionless numbers that characterize flow and mass transfer properties.

3. Importance of Mass Transfer Coefficient Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation of mass transfer coefficients is crucial for designing chemical processes, separation systems, and various engineering applications involving mass transfer between phases.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter free stream velocity in m/s, Reynolds number, and Schmidt number. All values must be positive numbers. The calculator is specifically designed for laminar flow conditions over flat plates.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the Reynolds number range for laminar flow?
A: For flow over a flat plate, laminar flow typically occurs at Reynolds numbers below approximately 5×10⁵.

Q2: What does the Schmidt number represent?
A: The Schmidt number (Sc) is the ratio of momentum diffusivity (kinematic viscosity) to mass diffusivity, indicating the relative effectiveness of momentum and mass transport.

Q3: When is this formula applicable?
A: This formula is specifically for laminar flow over flat plates and may not be accurate for turbulent flow or other geometries.

Q4: What are typical values for mass transfer coefficients?
A: Mass transfer coefficients vary widely depending on the system, but typically range from 10⁻⁶ to 10⁻² m/s for various applications.

Q5: How does velocity affect mass transfer?
A: Higher fluid velocities generally increase mass transfer rates by reducing boundary layer thickness and enhancing convective transport.