Chemical process calculations or stoichiometry is the basic subject of chemical engineering. It entails analyzing energy as it traverses through different states and the various properties that accompany each state. Chemical reactions are assigned values that guide the process. However, there are also qualitative processes that involve inferring from observing chemical reactions. The fundamental concepts you need to understand in chemical process calculations are: (according to http://blog.hospitals-management.com/five-essential-tips-for-starting-your-own-healthcare-business/ )
· Humidity
· Saturation
· Energy balance
· Nature of reactions
· Thermoequilbrium
· Molarity
Chemical engineers engage in chemical process calculations to obtain a predetermined set of desirable conditions for future reactions. Chemical process calculations also determine the material and concentration of reagents to use in a reaction.
Chemical process calculations require precise knowledge and accurate analysis of variables. You need to first understand the type of process before beginning chemical process calculations. The common processes in chemical engineering are
Isothermal process- carried out under constant temperature
Adiabatic process-there is no heat exchange with the surroundings of the system
Polytropic process- a constant reversible process that follows a specific pressure-volume relationship
Isentropic process- An adiabatic and reversible process
Isochoric process- carried out under constant volume
Isobaric process- Carried out under constant pressure
Reversible and irreversible processes are the general categories under which the above processes fall into.
Steps in analyzing a reaction
- Understand the type and objective of the process
- Provide a schematic diagram of the process and indicate states and other relevant information provided
- Stipulate the required data
- Write the equilibrium reaction equations, energy balance equations, and other relevant equations essential to the process.
- Formulate a series of equations and solve for the required date using the provided variables.
- Obtain a general trend or rule for other similar reactions.
While following the 6 step procedure, remember to pay attention to concentrations and units. You can use the results to optimize reactions.
Conclusion
Chemical process calculations are an intricate aspect of chemical engineering and therefore need all the mental acumen you can summon to obtain accurate results.