(a) The irreversible elementary reaction 2A → B takes place in the gas phase in an isothermal tubular (plug-flow) reactor. Reactant A and a diluent C are fed in equimolar ratio, and conversion of A is 80%. If the molar feed rate of A is cut in half, what is the conversion of A assuming that the feed rate of C is left unchanged? Assume ideal behavior and that the reactor temperature remains unchanged. What was the point of this problem? Source: From California Professional Engineers’ Exam.
(b) Write a question that requires critical thinking, and explain why it involves critical thinking. (See Preface Section G.2.)
