Question

The overall conversion of reactants can be increased in spite of increasing of the residence time.

(a) True

(b) False

I got this question by my school teacher while I was bunking the class.

My question is based upon Concentration Gradients and Reaction Rates in Solid Catalysts topic in chapter Heterogenous Reactions of Bioprocess Engineering

Answer 1

The correct choice is (b) False

Best explanation: In heterogeneous reactors external mass transport can be increased by a better mixing of the fluid. A higher flow rate also contributes to a better mixing. Under the better mixing a laminar film around the catalyst particle is thinner and more reactants can be transported to the surface. Consequently, the overall conversion of reactants can be increased in spite of lowering of the residence time.