Question

A reactor supplied with CO2 and H2O, the product contains 10% H2CO3 and 90% H2O, what is the feed rate of CO2, if the rate of product is 50 mole?

(a) 5 mole

(b) 10 mole

(c) 25 mole

(d) 50 mole

The question was asked at a job interview.

I want to ask this question from Element Material Balances topic in chapter The Chemical Reaction Equation & Stoichometry, Material Balances for Processes Involving Reaction and Multiple Units of Basic Chemical Engineering

Answer 1

Correct option is (a) 5 mole

For explanation I would say: The reaction is CO2 + H2O -> H2CO3. Let the rates of CO2 and H2O be F and W respectively. Element balances, C: F(1) = 0.1P(1), => 10F = P, => F = 5 mole.