Mass Transfer Boundary Layer Thickness Of Flat Plate In Laminar Flow Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ \delta_{mx} = \delta_{hx} \times (Sc)^{-0.333} \]

Mass Transfer Boundary Layer Thickness:

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1. What Is The Mass Transfer Boundary Layer Thickness?

The Mass Transfer Boundary Layer Thickness is the thickness of the boundary layer at a distance X where mass transfer occurs. It represents the region near a surface where concentration gradients exist and mass transfer takes place between the surface and the fluid.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \delta_{mx} = \delta_{hx} \times (Sc)^{-0.333} \]

Where:

\( \delta_{mx} \) — Mass Transfer Boundary Layer Thickness at x (m)
\( \delta_{hx} \) — Hydrodynamic Boundary Layer Thickness (m)
\( Sc \) — Schmidt Number (dimensionless)

Explanation: The formula relates the mass transfer boundary layer thickness to the hydrodynamic boundary layer thickness through the Schmidt number, which represents the ratio of momentum diffusivity to mass diffusivity.

3. Importance Of Mass Transfer Boundary Layer Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation of mass transfer boundary layer thickness is crucial for predicting mass transfer rates in various engineering applications, including chemical processing, heat exchangers, and environmental systems where mass transfer plays a significant role.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter the hydrodynamic boundary layer thickness in meters and the Schmidt number (dimensionless). Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the Schmidt number?
A: The Schmidt number (Sc) is a dimensionless number defined as the ratio of momentum diffusivity (kinematic viscosity) to mass diffusivity.

Q2: When is this formula applicable?
A: This formula is specifically applicable for laminar flow over a flat plate where both hydrodynamic and mass transfer boundary layers develop simultaneously.

Q3: What are typical values for Schmidt number?
A: Schmidt number values vary widely depending on the fluid and diffusing species. For gases, Sc is typically around 0.1-2, while for liquids it can range from 100 to over 10,000.

Q4: How does the mass transfer boundary layer relate to the hydrodynamic boundary layer?
A: The mass transfer boundary layer thickness is generally smaller than the hydrodynamic boundary layer thickness when Sc > 1, which is typical for most fluids.

Q5: What are the limitations of this formula?
A: This formula is valid for laminar flow conditions and assumes constant fluid properties. It may not be accurate for turbulent flow or cases with significant property variations.