Mastering ChE 2011 Process Analysis: Extra Credit for Problem #3.2 Explained

[Smx_Drummerboy]

Hello, this is my first post in these forums, hopefully it proves to be helpful. I recently just took my 4th exam in my ChE 2011 Process Analysis class. I didn't do good on it at all. The good news is, the professor is giving us a chance to get some extra credit.

For Extra Credit:
Consider problem No. 3.2. There is an effort in this problem. What is it? How can you find the correct solution?

#3.2
Find the fraction vapor and *liquid and the composition of each stream.
* Here I assume he means the vapor and liquid composition, the way I typed it is how it appeared on the test.

Info for the problem:
A feed stream containing 22 mole% methanol and 78 mole % water is brought to equilibrium at 75 deg C and 760 mm Hg. The feed flowrate is 100lb-mole/hr.
Km=1.49=Xm/Ym, Kw=.38=Xw/Yw

This is about all that is given, the only other thing is a diagram with a system containing a feed stream and then an exit liquid and exit vapor stream.

I have struggled with this class all semester and still have yet to understand it. My professor isn't that great of a teacher. The book we are learning out of is Material Balances For Chemical Engineers by Ramon L. Cerro if that helps, this is Chapter 5 material.

Any help or input anyone can offer is more than I can say my professor has given and would be appreciated more than you can imagine.

Thanks

 

[Smx_Drummerboy]

There is a correction apparently which helps a little...Instead of effort, he meant to type error. Maybe this will give someone and idea. I'm at a loss.

 

[ravenprp]

for sharing your experience and reaching out for help. It's great that your professor is offering extra credit to help improve your grade.

To answer the question, the effort in problem #3.2 is to find the fraction vapor and liquid, as well as the composition of each stream. This is a common task in process analysis, as understanding the composition and phase behavior of a system is crucial in designing and optimizing chemical processes.

To find the correct solution, you will need to use the given information, such as the feed stream composition and the equilibrium conditions (temperature and pressure), along with the equilibrium constants (Km and Kw). You can then use material balance equations and the equilibrium equations to solve for the unknown variables.

It's understandable that you are struggling with this class, as process analysis can be a challenging subject. It's important to reach out for help and seek additional resources, such as textbooks and online tutorials, to supplement your understanding. Also, don't be afraid to ask your professor for clarification or extra help outside of class.

Overall, keep working hard and don't give up. With determination and persistence, you can improve your understanding of process analysis and succeed in the class. Best of luck!