Question

Ethane is supplied at the rate F with oxygen at the rate W and leaves the following products CO2, H2O, O2, C2H6 and H2 at the rate P. How many independent element balances are possible?

(a) 1

(b) 2

(c) 3

(d) 4

I have been asked this question in homework.

The above asked question is from Element Material Balances in division The Chemical Reaction Equation & Stoichometry, Material Balances for Processes Involving Reaction and Multiple Units of Basic Chemical Engineering

Answer 1

Correct option is (c) 3

To explain I would say: The reaction is C2H6 + 3.5O2 -> 2CO2 + 3H2O, since there are three elements C, H and O, we can write 3 independent material balances.