Does the type of reactor affect the rate law in a chemical reaction?

In summary, the conversation discussed the assumption of a batch reactor when deriving rate laws and whether the rate law of a chemical reaction changes when put into a flow reactor. The mathematical representation of a rate law was also mentioned, as well as the difference in measuring parameters in a batch reactor versus a flow reactor.
  • #1
gfd43tg
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Hello,

I noticed, when deriving rate laws, the assumption is that the reaction is happening in a batch reactor. Does the rate law of a chemical reaction change if put into some type of flow reactor?

Thanks
 
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  • #2
What specifically are you referring to (mathematically) when you use the term "rate law?"
 
  • #3
Something like this

##r_{A} = -kC_{A}^{\alpha}C_{B}^{\beta}##
 
  • #4
Yes. This applies to all reactors, both flow and batch. But often, in the laboratory, the parameters in the rate expression are measured in a batch reactor (since it's easier to set up).

Incidentally, the reaction rate is usually expressed without the minus sign, so the rate represents the rate of disappearance of A and B.

Chet
 
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  • #5
for your question. The type of reactor can definitely affect the rate law in a chemical reaction. This is because the rate law is dependent on the conditions and environment in which the reaction is taking place. Different types of reactors, such as batch reactors or flow reactors, have different operating conditions that can impact the rate of the reaction.

In a batch reactor, the reactants are all mixed together at the beginning of the reaction and are allowed to react until the reaction is complete. This type of reactor typically has a constant volume and no flow of reactants. In this case, the rate law would be based on the concentrations of the reactants at the beginning of the reaction and would not change throughout the reaction.

On the other hand, in a flow reactor, the reactants are continuously flowing into the reactor and the products are continuously removed. This type of reactor typically has a constant flow rate and can also have varying volumes. In this case, the rate law would be based on the concentrations of the reactants at any given time during the reaction, as they are constantly changing due to the flow of reactants and removal of products.

Additionally, the type of reactor can also affect the reaction conditions, such as temperature and pressure, which can also impact the rate law. For example, a flow reactor may have better temperature control, leading to a different rate law compared to a batch reactor with less precise temperature control.

In summary, the type of reactor can definitely affect the rate law of a chemical reaction. It is important to consider the specific conditions and environment in which the reaction is taking place when deriving the rate law.
 

1. What is a rate law?

A rate law is a mathematical expression that describes the relationship between the concentration of reactants and the rate of a chemical reaction. It is based on experimental data and can be used to predict how changes in reactant concentrations will affect the rate of the reaction.

2. How is a rate law determined?

A rate law is determined through experiments where the concentrations of reactants are varied and the corresponding reaction rates are measured. Based on this data, the rate law can be derived using the method of initial rates or the method of integrated rate laws.

3. What factors can affect the rate law of a reaction?

The rate law of a reaction can be affected by factors such as temperature, concentration of reactants, presence of a catalyst, and the physical state of the reactants (e.g. solid, liquid, gas). These factors can alter the rate constant or the orders of the reactants in the rate law equation.

4. What is a batch reactor?

A batch reactor is a type of chemical reactor where all reactants are added at the beginning of the reaction and the reaction mixture is allowed to react until the desired conversion is achieved. It is a closed system where no additional reactants or products are added or removed during the reaction.

5. What is a continuous flow reactor?

A continuous flow reactor is a type of chemical reactor where reactants are continuously fed into the reactor and the products are continuously removed. This allows for a steady state to be reached, and the reaction rate is controlled by adjusting the flow rate of reactants or changing the reactor parameters. Examples of continuous flow reactors include plug-flow reactors and continuously stirred tank reactors.

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