Question

A reactor is supplied with 2 streams both at same rates, one has pure Cl2, and another has pure C2H6, if the product has 20% C2H5Cl and 50% HCl and 30% C2H6, what is the ratio of rate of feed and rate of product?

(a) 0.2

(b) 0.5

(c) 2

(d) 5

This question was addressed to me in an interview for internship.

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

The correct option is (b) 0.5

For explanation: The reaction is C2H6 + Cl2 -> C2H5Cl + HCl, Let the rate of feed and products be F and P respectively. Element balances, C: F(2) – 0.3P(2) = 0.2P(2), => F/P = 0.5.