400L

CHEMICAL
ENGR.
PAST
QUESTIONS
(2012/2013)
Compiled by Osas Uwoghiren & Dorcas Aboderin
Property of CTC 2013

NOTE
Glory be to God for the successful compilation of this past
question. The purpose for this past questions compilation is to
serve as a guide for your study for the forthcoming exams. It is
not a substitute for your lecture notes. It is also a free
electronic copy and no part is to be re-produced. The authors
wish you success in your exams. Finally, if any part of this
compilation is not clear to you, the authors do not wish to be
disturbed concerning it. Thanks and God be with you.

Dorcas & Osas

CHE 411 MID SEMESTER TEST

A mixture of 100 mol containing 50mol % n-heptane is distilled under differential
conditions at 101.2kPa until the residue contained 70mol%.
a. What is the average composition of the total vapour distilled?
b. How many moles of the residue remained at the end if diatillation
c. What is the composition by weight of feed that was distilled?
d. If the initial mixture was heated slowly in a closed vessel at constant pressure of
101.2kPa until the vapour above the liquid contained 70mol% n-pentane, determine the
composition and moles of the liquid in the vessel
Q2. We wish to separate a binary mixture of A and B by continuous distillation. The
mixture consists of 20mol% A and 80mol% B at the bubble point. The vapour-liquid
equilibrium data is plotted in the attached figure. The binary mixture is available at
200kg-mol/hr and we wish to obtain distillate product that has a concentration of 95
percent A and that contains half of component A in the feed stream.
a. What are the flow rates of the products and composition of A in the bottoms
b. What are the minimum reflux ratio and minimum number of stages required to effect
this separation?
c. If we were to design a distillation column with a partial reboiler and a total condenser
to operate at 1.2 times the minimum reflux ratio, how many stages are needed?
d. What is the optimum location for the feed?
e. What is the actual number of trays that will be needed for this separation?
f. What is the relative volatility of A with respect to B if B is the less volatile component
and the relative volatility is assumed constant for this mixture?

CHE 411 (2012/2013) ALPHA SEMESTER EXAM

(All diagrams are in the solution)
Q1
Fig.Q1 represents the T-x, y and P-x diagrams for n-pentane and n-heptane mixtures
a) Label on each of the diagrams the following
i)

the subcooled liquid, vapour-liquid and the superheated vapour regions

ii)

identify the point and dew point curves

iii)

the boiling points of n-pentane and n-heptane at 1.5 atm

iv)

What are the vapour pressure of pure n-pentane and n-heptane at 400K

b) What phase or phases are present if a mixture containing 30 mol% pentane at 1.5
atm. Is heated to: (a) 380K, (b) 340K, (c) 360K.? The mole % n-pentane in the phases(s)
present and the mole % vapour if the mixture is heated up to 360K at constant pressure.
What is the composition of the last bubble of vapour that remains?
c) A vapour mixture of n-pentane and n-heptane, 50 mol% n-pentane is cooled till it
begins to condense at constant pressure-1.5 atm. At what temperature will the
condensation begin?
What is the composition of the first droplet of liquid that is formed?
d) If a liquid containing 50 mol% pentane is heated to boiling at 1.5 atm, what is the
composition of the first vapour that comes off? At what temperature will the boiling
begin? What is the composition of the last droplet of liquid?
e) What are the bubble point and dew point pressures of a mixture containing 50mol%
pentane (at400K)?
f) Use Raoult's law to calculate the pressure exerted by 50 mol% pentane liquid at 400K
and the mole fraction of the pentane in the vapour in equilibrium with this liquid.
g) Calculate the volatility of n-pentane with respect to n-heptane at 360K and a pressure
of 1.5 atm.
h) 100 g moles/min of a feed to a flash tank contains 40 mol%, n-pentane and 60 mol%
n-heptane. The flash tank operates at 1.5 atm and the liquid and vapour streams leaving
the tank are in equilibrium at 360K. Calculate the amount and composition of the liquid

and vapour streams.

Q2
Fig Q2 illustrates the McCabe-Thiele construction for the number of ideal stages required
for the separation of 1000g moles/min of components A and B. The column is equipped
with a total condenser and a reboiler and operates at 1 atm.
a) What are the basic assumptions concerning the flow rates of streams in the columns?
b) Use the diagram to determine:
i.

The minimum reflux ratio

ii.

The actual reflux ratio used

iii.

The percentage of vapour in the feed

iv.

The flow rates of vapour in the rectifying section and that of the liquid in the liquid

in the stripping section

v.

The number of ideal trays and stages required for the separation

vi.

The minimum number of stages required for the separation

viii. Make a simple sketch of the fifth (5th) stage from top-showing all four streams and
indicate the mole fraction of A in each stream
Q3
A mixture of 500 g mol, containing 40 mol% n-pentane and 60 mol% n-heptane, is
distilled under differential conditions at 101.2 kPa until the residue contained 90mol% nheptane.
a.

How many moles of the residue remained at the end of the distillation?

b.

What is the average composition of the total vapour distilled?

c.

What is the composition by weight of the feed that was distilled?

d.

If 1000 g moles/hour of the same initial mixture was flash distilled at 101,2 kPa to

yield 60 mol% vapour, determine the composition and flow rate of both products
The equilibrium data is available in Fig Q3
Q4
1000 kg-mol/hr of a binary mixture- 30 mol% toulene and 70 mol% of ethyl-benzene
and at its bubble point is to be separated by continuous distillation in a column equipped
with a reboiler and a total condenser. The vapour-liquid equilibrium data is available in
Fig Q4. It is desired to obtain a bottoms product that has a concentration of 94 mol%

ethyl-benzene, the less volatile component. If the bottoms contain 14.55 mole% of the
toluene in the feed stream,
a) what are the flow rates of the products and the composition of toluene in the
distillate?
b) what is the minimum reflux ratio? Why is it important to know it in the design of
design columns?
c) if the distillation column is to be operated at 1.5 times the minimum reflux ratio, how
many stages are needed? How many ideal trays are needed?
d) What is the optimum location for the feed plate?
Q5
a) Discuss briefly any three factors that may be considered in the selection of a solvent
for an absorption process.
b) Name any three types of internals that may be used in a packed tower
c) Air contaminated with acetone is to be scrubbed with 'pure' water in a packed tower
in a constant temperature and pressure operation. The inlet contaminated air contains 2
volume% acetone while the outlet air is to contain 0.5 volume % actone.
If 15.0 kg-mole/hr of contaminated air is to be treated in a tower with a cross-sectional
area of0.19m2
i.

Determine the minimum water that may be used

ii.

Using twice the minimum solvent rate, determine the height of packing that is

needed for the desired separation.

The overall mass transfer coefficient with respect to the gas phase is
KYa=0.02183 kg mol/s.m3.mole fraction
The equilibrium is given by y=1.186x
Q6
a) Discuss briefly any three factors that may be considered in the selection of a solvent
for a liquid-liquid extraction process.
b) Describe briefly the essential features and functions of a mixer-settler for a solvent
extraction operation.
c) 1000 kg/hour of a 30 weight percent acetic solution in water is to be extracted with
pure isopropyl ether in a continuous counter current cascade. If the final raffinate is to

contain 2 weight percent acetic acid, determine the following;

i)

The minimum solvent rate[use the tie line through the feed]

ii) The number of ideal stages that must be in the cascade to achieve the desired
separation if 3000 kg/hr of solvent is used
iii) The flow rates of the products in (ii)
iv) The percentage recovery of the acetic acid into the extract phase
The equilibrium data for the acetic acid-isopropyl ether-water system at the operating
temperature and pressure is available in Fig.Q6

CHE 411 SOLUTION (2012/2013 SESSION)

B. pt of nheptane

(a)

SUPERHEATED
VAPOUR/LI
QUID
REGION
L
M

c)=365K

c)
V

(b)

d)
(c)

SUBCOOLED

B. pt of npentane

c)

d)

V.P of npentane

SUBCOOLED

e)=6.2atm
VAPOUR/LI
QUID
REGION

SUPERHEATED

e)=3.7atm
V.P of nheptane

Q1)
a) Youll find that (i-iv) are labeled in the two diagrams above. For (iii), the boiling points of
n-pentane and n-heptane are 322K and 385K respectively. For (iv), the vapour pressures
of n-pentane and n-heptane are 10.2 atm and 2.2 atm respectively
b) (a)=Superheated vapour, (b)=Subcooled liquid, (c)=Vapour/liquid mixture
The mole (%) of n-pentane in the phase(s) present:
For (a) at 380K, it contains only vapour; for (b) at 340K, only liquid i.e. (0.3)
For (c) at 360K, the compositions correspond to the points labelled L and V. L = 0.22
V = 0.58
To find the mole% of vapour as the mixture is heated up to 360K. (From the T-x,y
diagram, look at the points labeled L, M and V

, =

0.3 0.22
=
=
= 0.286
0.58 0.3

= 0.286 = 0.286

0.286

0.286
:
=
=
= 0.222
+ + 0.286 1 + 0.286
Lastly, the composition of last bubble of vapour that remained = y = 0.58
c) Youll find the part labeled c) corresponds to this question. The condensation will begin
at 365K. The composition of first liquid droplet formed = 0.18 (18 mole% n-pentane)

d) To get the composition of the 1st vapour that comes off, trace from 0.5 to where it
touches the bubble curve then from there to the dew curve =0.82 (82 mole% n-pentane)
Boiling begins at 342K
Composition of last droplet of liquid formed also corresponds to the part labeled c) =
0.18 (18mole% n-pentane)
e) The bubble and dew point pressures are labeled on the P-x,y diagram as e) i.e. 6.2 atm
and 3.7 atm respectively
f) : = 0 . = 0.5, 0 = 10.2 . = 0.5 10.2 = 5.1
0

, =
; = 6.2

10.2 0.5
=
= 0.822
6.2
g) 360 1.5 , = 0.22, = 0.58
(1 ) 0.58(1 0.22)
=
=
= 4.896
(1 ) 0.22(1 0.58)
h) The approach in solving this question is similar to that in b)
At 0.4, draw a line to intercept 360K. Of course, x and y are the same
= + 100 = +
= + 100 0.4 = 0.22 + (0.58)
, = 50/ , = 50/

Q2.

Minimum no of trays

ROL

q-line

+ 1
SOL

+1

a) The basic assumptions are that the flow streams are in equilibrium with one another.
b) (i) Minimum reflux ratio can be gotten from the intercept of the line that passes from (x D,
xD) through where the q-line touches the equilibrium curve

= 0.45,
+ 1

= 0.98

(ii) Actual reflux ratio, R can be gotten from intercept of the ROL line

= 0.32, = 0.89 = 1.78

+1
(iii) Percentage of vapour in feed is given by (1-q) because q is mole fraction of feed that
is liquid

0.5 0.72
= =
=
= 1.1
1

0.5 0.3

= 1.1; = 1.1 + 1.1; = 0.524

1

1 = 0.476 = 47.6%
(iv) Since q<1 and q>0, the feed is a mixture of vapour and liquid. At the stage of entry,
we have something like this:

(1-q)F

qF
Feed
(1-q)F
qF

= + ; ( is flow rate of vapour in rectifying section)

= + ; ( is flow rate of liquid in stripping section)
( is flow rate of vapour in rectifying section &
, =

; = = 1.78

, :
= + + = 1000 . . ()
= + 0.89 + 0.14 = 1000 0.5
, : =

480
520
, =

, = 1.78 480 =

854.4

= + = 854.4 + 0.524 1000 =

1378.4

 , , ,

= = 854.4 520 =

= 334.4 + 0.476 1000 =

334.4

810.4

(v) Number of ideal stages required = 6, number of ideal trays = 5

(vi) Minimum no of trays = 4
(vii)

L4, x4

L5, x5

V5, y5

V6, y6

Q3
First, make a simple sketch of the
system.

1 1 = 2 2 + (1 2 )
,

1
=
2

1
2

1 = 500, 1 = 0.4, 2 = 0.1,

500
=
2

0.4
0.1

Equilibrium Curve for Pentane - Heptane system

1.0
Mole fraction of pentane in vapour (y A)

0.9
0.8
0.7
0.6
0.5
0.4

Actual

0.3
0.2
0.1
0.0
0

0.1

0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
Mole fraction of pentane in liquid (x A )

x
0.1
0.15
0.2
0.25
0.3
0.35
0.4

y
0.2
0.28
0.36
0.44
0.5
0.57
0.62

y-x
0.1
0.13
0.16
0.19
0.2
0.22
0.22

0.8

1/(y-x)
10.000
7.692
6.250
5.263
5.000
4.545
4.545

0.9

fx
f0
f1
f2
f3
f4
f5
f6

+ 4 + 2 = (0 + 6) + 4(1 + 3 + 5) + 2(2 + 4)
3
3

500
0.05
=
10 + 4.545 + 4 7.692 + 5.263 + 4.545 + 2 6.25 + 4. .545
2
3
500
500
= 1.784 ; 2 =
= 83.977
2
5.954

, 1 1 = 2 2 + 1 2

= 1.784

1 1 2 2
500 0.4 (83.977 0.1)
=
= 0.461
1 2
(500 83.977)

c) Composition by weight of the feed

: 5 12 = 12 5 + 1 12 =
5 12 =

72

40
500 = 200
100

5 12 = 200 72 = 14400
: 7 16 = 12 7 + 1 16 =
7 14 =

100

60
500 = 300
100

7 14 = 300 100 = 30000

d)

D
f=vapour fraction

(1-f)=liquid fraction

B
=
=

( 1)

1 0.6 1
=
=
= 0.67 =

0.6

2
0.2
= =
= 0.67

3
0.3
, :

) 0.4 45
) , 0.3 . 0.1
) 0.2 . 0.6
) . = 0.1 = 0.6
) ,

Equilibrium Curve for Pentane - Heptane system

Mole fraction of pentane in vapour (y A)

1.0
0.9
0.8

Point of
intersectio
n

0.7
0.6

0.5

0.4

Actual

0.3
0.2
0.1
0.0
0

0.1

0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
Mole fraction of pentane in liquid (x A )

0.8

0.9

= 0.48, = 0.28
= + 1000 = + ()
= + 1000 0.4 = 0.48 + 0.28
, =

600
400
, =

Q4. a) From material balance

= + . ()
= + . . ()
, 14.55%

 = 14.55% ; = 100 94% = 6% = 0.06, = 0.3

0.06 =

14.55
0.3 1000
100

= 728

, = 100 728 =

282

, = 0.91
b) To get the minimum reflux ratio, we need the q-line
Since the feed is at the bubble point, then it is saturated liquid i.e. q=1
:

1
=
=
1 11

Equilibrium Curve for Toluene-Ethylbenzene

system
1.0

Mole fraction of toluene in vapour (y A )

0.9
0.8
0.7
()

0.6

0.5

()

0.4

Actual

+ 1

0.3

0.2
0.1
0.0
0

0.1

0.2

0.3

0.4

0.5

0.6

0.7

Mole fraction of toluene in liquid (x A )

0.8

0.9


= 0.3, = 0.91, = 2.03
+ 1
c) If R = 1.5 of Rmin , then R = 3.05.
=

0.91
=
= 0.22
+ 1 3.05 + 1

Then number of stages = 10, number of ideal trays = 9

d) Optimum location of feed plate is on tray 5
Q5
i)

To determine the minimum water flow rate that may be used,

1 2
=

1 max 2

= 1.186
x
0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1

y
0
0.2372
0.4744
0.7116
0.9488
1.186

Equilibrium Line
1.2

mole fraction of solute in vapour, y

1.1
1
0.9
0.8
0.7

0.6
Series1

0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1

2 1(max )
0
0.1
2

0.2

0.3

0.4

0.5

0.6

0.7

0.8

0.9

mole fraction of solute in liquid, x

The scale is too small but note that the black line indicates the operating line
After plotting the equilibrium line, locate x2 and y2 on the graph but draw the diagram first

2 = 0 , 2 = 0.005 . 0.5% , 2 = 0.02 . . 2 %

Note: Volume%=mole%

max

= 0.018

1 2
0.02 0.005
=
=
= 0.833

1 max 2
0.018 0
= /2

15
0.19 2

15 1
1
1.316
=

60 0.19 2
2
1.096
= 0.833 1.316 =
2
ii)
2 = 2 = 2 1.096 =

2.192
2

1 2 ,
2 2 + 1 1 = 1 1 + 2 2
2 = 1 = 2 = 1 =
2 = 0 , 2 = 0.005, 1 = 0.02
1 2 = 1
1 = 0.009
, =
The equilibrium line is drawn again below but this time it is magnified from 0 to 0.04 on the yaxis and from 0 to 0.1 on the x-axis.

Equilibrium Line

mole fraction of solute in vapour, y

0.04

0.03

Operatin
g line
0.02 1
Series1

0.011

2
2 0

2
0

0.1
mole fraction of solute in liquid, x

From the graph above, after drawing the operating line from 2 , 2 1 , 1 , the points
1 , 2 are gotten to calculate NOG and HOG. By tracing 2 to the equilibrium curve, you get 2 .
By tracing 1 to the equilibrium curve, you get 1
2 = 0, 1 = 0.009
=

1 2

1 1 2 2

1 1
2
2
1 1
= ln 1 1 ln
(2 2 )
2 2

ln 1 1 ln 2 2 = ln 0.02 0.009 ln 0 = 4.51

*BEFORE YOU GO ANY FURTHER with this question, NOTE THAT THE ln of zero gives Math
error. SO, it is neglected.

0.02 0.009 0
= 0.00244
4.51

0.02 0
= 8.197
0.00244

, = 8.197
=

(1 1 )

(1 1 ) =

(1 1 ) =

1 1 1 1
1 1

1 1

1 0.02 (1 0.009)
= 0.9855
1 0.02
1 0.009
1.316
= 61.17
0.02183 0.9855

= = 8.197 61.17 = 501.4

CHE 410 SOLUTION (2012/2013)

1.

Let u = velocity of inlet water and v = volume of the tank (1000 L)

Component balance:
= +
. 0 = . 1 + .

1
1

, 0 = 0;
0 = . 1 + .

1
1
; . 1 = .

501 = 1000

1
;

1
=
. 2

1
50
=

1
1000

1
= 0.05
1
= 0, 1 = 0 = , 1 =

0
( = . )
10

0.10
0
0.10

1 ]0
ln

1
= 0.05
1

= 0.05; ln 0.10 [0 = 0.05

0.10
2.303
= 0.05; 0.1 = 0.05; =
= 46
0
0.05
Calculating the concentration in the second tank,
= +

. 1 = . 2 +

2
;

. 1 . 2 2
=
+

Calculating the concentration in 3rd tank

2 . 2 . 1
+
=

:
+

3
;

. 2 . 3 3

=
+

. 2 = . 3 +

. 1
=
; . =

2 ,

=
0

1
=

1
1
;
=
1

1
= ; 1 = 0 4
0

4 3 ,

2 . =

+
0

2 .

= 0, 2 = 0 ; = 0

2 . =

+ 0
0

0 . + 0 .

2 = 0

. 2
=
; . =

. +

2 = 0

+ 1 5

2
, = 0.3305
0

2
(6)

3 . =

5 (6)

0 + 1 .

3 . =

0 .

2 . =

2 =

3 . 3 . 2
+
=

1
(3)

2 . =

= +

3 . =

3 . = 0

0 + 1

2
+
2

2 2
= 0 . + 0 2 . +

= 0, 3 = 0 ; 0 . 1 = 0 + 0 + ;
= 0

2 2
3 . = 0 . + 0 2 . + 0

3 . = 0

2 2
. + 2 . +1

2 2
= . + 2 . + 1
0

3
= 0.596
0

2.

. 300 +

3
300 +
2

300 +

3
300 +
2

= 300
. 300 +

= 0 +

300 +

= 0, =

( ) 1.5 2
1
=

. 1

2 ,
=1

2 3
= 300
5 2

= 1.5 300 +

+ = 3

(4)

1.1 300 2
300 + 2

1.5

, = 500
2 , = 0 + ; = 500 300 = 200
4 ,

= 1.5 1.1

2
3
=
;=
300 +
300 +

. 300 +

300
500

1.1 300 2
300 + 200

= 1.5 0.396 = 1.104

.,

300+ 2

4 , = 1.5 1.1

300
300 +

3
. 300 +
300 +

300
300 +

= 1.5 1.1

= 1.5

2
3
+
=

300 +
300 +

@ ( ) ( )

2
3
+
=

0 +
0 +

= ln
= 300 + 2

1.1

= 300 +

0 +
+ 2 = 3

= =

1.1 300

3 ,

2
300 +

( )

+
= 3 (3)

0 +

120 2
=
300
5

300
= 1.5 1.1
300 +

2
1
=
=

= 0 + . 2
1 ,

=3

. 300 +

300
300 +
= 1.5

lim = 1.5 1.1

= 1.5 0

3a.
3 3 + 4 2 + 36 + 16 3 3 + 4 2 + 36 + 16
=
4 + 16
2 4 ( 2 + 4)
,
3 3 + 4 2 + 36 + 16 + +
= 2
+
2 4 2 + 4
4 2 + 4
3 3 + 4 2 + 36 + 16 = + 2 + 4 + + 2 4
3 3 + 4 2 + 36 + 16 = 3 + 4 + 2 + 4 + 3 4 + 2 4
,
+ = 3..
+ = 4
4 4 = 36 . .
4 4 = 16 . .
+ 4 : 2 = 12; = 6,

= 3

+ 4 : 2 = 8; = 4, = 0
3 3 + 4 2 + 36 + 16 6 + 4
3
= 2
2
2
2
4 +4
4 +4
1

6
2(2)
3
+ 2
2
= 6 cosh 2 + 2 sinh 2 3 cosh 2
2
2
2
2
+ 22

3b.
2 + = => 2 0 1 2 0 + =
2 0 1 2 + 20 + =

1
12

= 0, = 1, = 0 => 2 2 + 2 + =

2 2 + 1 + 2 =

Property of CTC 2013

1
12

1
( 1)2

1
1
1 + 2 2 2 + 1
=
+

2
=
( 1)2
2 2 + 1
2 2 + 1
3 4 2 + 5 1 3 4 2 + 5 1
=
2 2 + 1 2
1 4

Page 26

 3 4 2 + 5 1

=
+
4
1
( 1)
1
3 4 2 + 5 1 = 1

+ 1

+ 1 +

3 4 2 + 5 1 = 3 3 2 + 3 1 + 2 2 + 1 + 1 +
,
3 + = 4,

= 1;

=1

3 2 + = 5,

=0

+ + = 1; = 1
3 4 2 + 5 1
1
1
=

1 4
( 1)
1
1
1

1
1

6
6 1

+
2

1
1

1
= + 3
6

1
= 1 + 3
6
4a. For two groups of unequal variance and non-normal distribution, the Man Whitney test is
used. Consider the masses of chocolate bars produced from two different confectionaries as
shown in the table below. If we wish to check for the consistency in mass f the bars, the
following steps are to be taken:
Masses of chocolate bars
(g)
A
21
15
17
16
20
n1=5

Ranks

B
18
22
19

A
7
1
3
2
6

n2=3

B
4
8
5

STEPS:

Rank both groups simultaneously (giving rank 1 to the lowest score)

Find the sum of ranks for the smaller sample (or for sample A- if size is the same). The
sum of ranks = R

Find U. U

n n
1

n (n
1

1)

Find U (U = n1n2-U)

Look up the smaller of U and U in the table

Accept H0 if calculated value is greater than table value

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Covenant University Canaanland.

Km 10 Idiroko Road. P.M.B. 1023 Ota.
Ogun State, Nigeria
B.Sc degree Examination
College: Science and Technology

Department: CIS/Mathematics

Session: 2012/2013

Semester: Alpha

Course Code: GEC 410

Course Title: Probability and Statistics

Course Credit Units: 2

Time: 2 hours

1. (a) Define the following:

i.

Permutation (2 marks)

ii.

Combination (2 marks)

iii.

Experiment (2marks)

(b) A machinist produces 22 items during a shift. Three of these items are defective and the rest
are not defective. In how many ways can the 22 items be arranged if all the defectives are
considered identical and all the non defectives are identical of a different class? (6 marks)
(c) From a deck of 52 cards, seven cars are drawn at random without replacement. What is the
probability that at least one of the cards is a king? (6 marks)
(d)

i. Determine the probability mass function of the random variable X from the following

cumulative mass function. (3 marks)

ii. The random pressure fluctuations P in a fuel pump tank are governed by the density
=

1
.
10

100 110

Find the expected value of the pressure fluctuations (3 marks)

Suppose that in a semiconductor manufacturing the probability is 0.10 that a chip that is
subjected to high levels of contamination during manufacturing causes a product failure. The
probability is 0.005 that a chip that is not subjected to high levels of contamination causes a
product failure. In a particular production run, 20% of the chips are subject to high levels of
contamination. What is the probability that a product using one of the chip fails? (6marks)
2. (a) A chemical engineer knows that it is very important that a certain solution in chemical
process have a pH of 8.30. The method used gives measurements which are approximately
normally distributed about the pH of the solution with a standard deviation of 0.02. If he
measures a pH of 8.32, test the significance of the measurement at 5% level of significance. (10
marks)
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(b) Nine measurements of impact energy (J) on a specimen of A238 steel cut at 60oC are as
follows 64.1, 64.7, 64.5, 64.6, 64.5, 64.3, 64.8, 64.2 and 64.3. Assuming the impact energy is
normally distributed with variance equals to 1J. Find a 95% confidence interval for. The mean
impact energy (10 marks)
3(a) i. Give the axiomatic definition of probability (5 marks)
ii. In a company where machine shafts are being manufactured. The shaft can be rejected if the
diameter is less than 98% or 102% greater than its nominal value. The "nominal" value is the
design or desired value. The probability that a shaft is being rejected because the diameter is less
than 98% of its nominal value is given by 0.02 and the probability that the shaft is rejected
because the diameter is greater than 102% is 0.015. What is the probability that a shaft will be
rejected? (5 marks).
(b) A pump is known to fail according to the exponential density with mass of 1000hr. Then
1

= 1000 . Suppose that a critical mission requires the pump to operate at 200hr. Calculate the
failure probability. (10 marks)
4. (a) i. What is sample space?
ii. Samples of polycarbonate plastics are analyzed for scratch and shock resistance. The results
from 50 samples are summarized as follows:
Shock

Scratch

High

Low

High

40

Low

Let A denote the event that a sample has high shock resistance and B be the event that a sample
has high scratch resistance. Determine the number of samples in the following:
(b) Light bulbs are tested to establish life times. Suppose light bulbs can fail prematurely for a
variety of reasons, one of such reasons being a defective filament. The probability that a part will
fail for any reason is 0.01. If the bulb happens to have a defective filament, then the probability
that it will fail prematurely is 0.1. If the bulb fails, then the probability that the cause of the failure
is a defective filament is 0.05. What is the probability that the filament is defective? (10 marks)
5. (a) The following circuit works if only there is a path of functional device from a to b that is
from left to right. The probability that each device functions is shown on the graph. Assume that
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devices fail independently. What is the probability that the circuit does not operate? (10 marks)

0.1

0.05

0.01

0.1

0.1

0.05

b) Cameras are being manufactured by two factories say A and B. It is known that the probability
that a defective unit will still pass inspection is 0.01. If the unit is defective, the probability that it
came from factory A is 0.3. If the unit is not defective, the probability that it came from factory B
is 0.8. Suppose that a consumer can find out where the camera from, it will him/her to make a
choice. Find the probability that the camera if it came from A. (10 marks)

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GEC 410 SOLUTION (2012/2013 SESSION)

1a) i) A permutation of the elements is an ordered sequence of the elements. The number of
permutations of n different elements is where ! = 1 2 . . 2 1. The
number of permutations of a subset of r elements selected from a set of n different elements is
!
=
!
ii) In combination, one is interested in number of subsets r that can be obtained from a set of n
elements and the order is not important. Combination is denoted by
!
=
! !
iii) An experiment E is
A set, S of elements or outcomes called sample space
A -field, F consisting of certain subsets, S called events and,
The number P(A) assigned to every event, A. This number is called the probability of the
event, A
1b) Permutation of indistinguishable items: n=22, 1st class = n1=3, 2nd class =n2 =(22-3)=19
Number of orders in which the 22 items can be arranged is given as:
!
22!
=
= 1540
1 ! 2 ! 3! 19!
1c) = 1
.
, 52 4 = 48
487
=
= 52 = 0.5504
7
7

= 1 = 1 0.4496
1d (i) The question was incomplete.
1d(ii)
1e)
Let F denote the event that the product fails and H
denote the event of a chip being subjected to high
levels of contamination and H as the event not being
subjected to high contamination levels
= 0.10,
= 0.005
= 0.2 . . 20% ,
= 1 0.2 = 0.8
= = +
= 0

= [ | ] + [ | = 0.10 0.2 + 0.005 0.8 = 0.0235

2a) Null hypothesis: H0 : pH=8.30, Alternative hypothesis: H 1: pH 8.30
0
,
=
: = 1
/
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8.32 8.30
= 1.00
0.02
From the normal distribution table, 1 = 0.8413
1 1 = 1 = 1 0.8413 = 0.1587
The observed level of significance = 2 0.1587 = 0.317
= 31.7%
Since it is larger than the critical level of significance i.e
5% then H0 is rejected and we can conclude that the
difference from a pH of 8.30 is not statistically significant at 5% level of significance.
1 =

2b. Given 2 = = 1, = = 2 = 1
:

; = 100 95 = 5

2 = 2.5 = 1 = 1.96 , 1 = +1.96

? 2.5 .

64.1 + 64.7 + 64.5 + 64.6 + 64.5 + 64.3 + 64.8 + 64.2 + 64.3

= 64.44
9
1
1
64.44 1.96
64.44 + 1.96
= 63.79 65.09
3
3
3a. Axiomatic definition of probability:
=

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0 1 ( A is an event occurring)
= 1 (where S is the sample space)
{1 , 2 , 3 , } (. .
o : = ,

( )
=0

1=0

ii. Let A be the event that a shaft is less than 98% of the nominal value and B be the event that
it is greater than 102% of the nominal value. Let R be the event that a shaft is rejected

= 0.02, = 0.015 =
= + = 0.02 + 0.015 0 = 0.035
4(a) i. A sample space (S) is defined as the set of all possible outcomes in a random experiment.
ii.
Shock

Scratch

High

Low

High

40

44

Low

41

50 samples

A is the event that a sample has high shock resistance and B, the event that a sample has
high scratch resistance.
= +
41
44
40
=
,
=
, =
(. )
50
50
50
41 44 40 45
=
+

=
. 45
50 50 50 50
41
9
= 1 = 1
=
. 9
50 50
4(b) Let D be the event that the filament is defective. Let F be the event that a part fails.
= 0.01,
= 0.05,
= 0.1



=
; =
. : =
; = (|) ()



(|) () 0.05 0.01
=
=
= 0.005
(|)
0.1

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5a.

First divide the system into three parts as shown above. Note that when solving questions
regarding reliability of a system, when the system is in series, you deal with probabilities of
success and when the system is in parallel, you deal with probabilities of failure.
For the system above, the probabilities given are that of successes (i.e that the device functions)

For system A, it is parallel so we deal with failures.

(1 ) = 1 0.1 1 0.1 1 0.1 = 0.729

=3

= = 1 = 1 0.729 = 0.271
For system B,

(1 ) = 1 0.05 1 0.05 = 0.9025

=2

= = 1 = 1 0.9025 = 0.0975
The system becomes

Now that the system is in series, we deal with probabilities of success

= 0.271 0.0975 0.01 = 0.000264
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 = 1 0.000264 = 0.999736
5b. Let D be the event that a camera is defective. Let A be the event that the camera comes from
factory A. Let A be the event that the camera does not come from factory A (i.e. it comes from
B)
, = 0.3, = 1 0.01 = 0.99, = 1 0.8 = 0.2
,

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[ + ]

0.3 0.99
= 0.993
(0.3 0.99) + (0.2 0.01)

Page 35

CHE 414 MIDSEMSTER TEST 2012/2013

Time: 2 hours
Answer as many questions as you can. Maximum Obtainable marks is 75.
1. Differentiate between block, process flow diagram (PFD) and Piping and
Instrumentation diagrams (P & I diagrams) (5marks) (Note: No drawings required)
2. List four (4) essential information and four (4) optional information for PFD (8 marks)
3. Write a short note (quarter of a page maximum) on precision of data for design (5
marks)
4. Design Selection process can be considered to go through four stages. What are these
stages? (4 marks)
5. The chemical engineer often has to choose between continuous operation and batch
operation. List four (4) conditions each favouring continuous and btch operations
respectively. (8 marks).
6. Express batches per year as a function of plant attainment and batch cycle time,
explaining any figure (number) or constant in the relationship (4 marks)
7. Project documentation is a key aspect of plant design. Write a short note (1) page
maximum on project documentation, stating in the process the various categories and
sub categories. (6 marks).
8. What is the scope of modern engineering standards? (4 marks)
9. Name any four organisations that issues standards of interest to chemical engineers (4
marks)
10. To ensure complete combustion 25 percent excess air is supplied to furnace burning
natural gas. The gas composition (by volume) is 96% methane, ethane 4%. Calculate the
moles of air required by mole of fuel (15 marks)
11
A heat balance was carried over a range of values for the conversion C, using a computer
program, Energy 1:
20 marks
Hint: Assume temperature is high enough for the gas to be ideal hence use partial
pressure in place of fugacity. Reaction is exothermic. Assume no heat loss.

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ALPHA SEMESTER EXAMINATION

Time: 3 hours
Answer as many questions as you can. Maximum marks obainable is 100.
1. The feed stream to a reactor contains 20 percent (by weight) naphthalene (C10H8), 45
percent oxygen, 30 percent nitrogen and carbon dioxide. If the naphthalene flow is
100kg/h, calculate the individual component molar flows and total stream molar flow
into the reactor. If the conversion (combustion) of naphthalene is only limited by the
availability of reactants, calculate the individual component mass flow from the reactor.
(20 marks)
2. In the adiabatic production of hydrogen by the steam reforming of hydrocarbons, the
classic water-gas reaction is used to convert CO in the gases leaving the reforming furnace
to hydrogen, in a shift converter.
A typical gases composition obained by strem reforming methaneis CO2 8.5, CO 11.0,
H2 76.5 mol percent dry gase. If this is fed to a shift converter at 500oK, with a steam
ratio of 3mol H2O to 1 mol CO, estimate the outlet composition and temperature. A
heat balance was carried over a range of values for the conversion, using a computer
program with the following results:
Outlet temperature (K)

Kp

Heat required

540

0.012

-230,340

560

0.022

-127,704

600

0.039

+77,460

620

0.051

+180,042

640

0.059

+282,624

Assume that in the outlet stream the gases reach chemical equilibrium.
3. State the procedural steps involved in the use of McCabe Thiele method to determine
the number of trays and feed point in a binary distillation column.
The slope of the q-line in a McCabe Thiele diagram varies with feed conditions. Explain
the conditions represented by the following slopes of the q-line
a. q=0
b. q=1
c. 0<q<1
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d. q>1
e. q<0
4. a) With the aid of simple diagrams, differentitate between block diagram, process flow
diagram (PFD), and Piping and Instrumentation Diagram (P&I Diagram)
b) The chemical engineer often has to choose between continuous operation and batch
operation. List four (4) conditions favouring continuous operations
c) Express batches per year as a function of plant attainment and batch cycle time,
explaining any figure (number) or constant in the relationship
d) Project documentation is a key aspect of plant design. Write a short note on project
documentation, stating in the process the categories and sub categories
5. The vessel in the diagram is made of plain carbon steel. It operates at a pressure of 16
bar gauge and 250oC. Making a 1.5 mm corrosion allowance and assuming the welds are
fully radiographed, determine the required thickness.
hemispherical

al

4m

ellipsoidal
3m

6. a) Fixed capital investment with respect to a chemical process plant is made up of

1. The inside battery limits (ISBL) - the cost of the plant itself;
2. The offsite or outside battery limit (OSBL) investment;
3. Engineering and Construction costs;
4. Contingency charges.
Enumerate the components that make up each of these
b) Explain briefly the following:
1. Location factor
2. Cost Index
3. Material Cost Factor
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4. Gross Margins
5. Gross Profit
6. Net Profit
7. Total Cost of Production
REFERENCE MATERIALS
Typical Maximum Allowable Stresses for Plates Under ASME BPV Code
Sec. VIII D.1 (The Appropriate Material Standards Should be Consulted for Particular
Grades and Plate Thicknesses)

The ASME BV Code specified vessel minimum thickness

Flat plates and formed flat heads
Hemispherical heads
Ellipsoidal heads
Torispherical heads

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CHE 414 MID-SEMESTER

BFD

PFD

P&ID

rectangular blocks to represent individual

Embodies the material and energy balances

Shows every mechanical aspect of the plant

processes or groups of operations, together

and the sizing of the major equipment data

regarding the process equipment and their

with quantities and other pertinent properties

include flow quantities, compositions,

interconnections except for supporting

of key streams between the blocks and into and

pressures, temperatures, and so on

structures and foundations.

from the process as a whole

Essential information for PFD Stream composition. Total stream flow-rate, kg/h. Stream
temperature Nominal operating pressure (the required operating pressure).
Optional information Molar percentages composition. Physical property data, mean values
for the stream, Stream name
In design, high precision is not necessary, at most one decimal flows should be used. For small
streamsless than the precision should be shown to a greater number of places. Lastly, imprecise
small flows should be shown as "TRACE" not "zero".
4.Possible designs (credible) within the external constraints. "use arrow"Plausible designs
(feasible) within the internal constraints. Probable designs likely candidates. Best design
(optimum) judged
5. Production rate greater than 5 X 106 kg/h No severe fouling Good catalyst life Proven
processes design Established market
Production rate less than 5 X 106 kg/h A range of products or product specifications Short
catalyst life New product
6. BATCHES PER YEAR = 8760

8760 = No of hours in a year i.e 365 days x 24 hours/day

7.
1. General correspondence within the design group and with:

government departments; equipment vendors; site personnel; the client

2. Calculation sheets

design calculations costing computer print

-out

3. Drawings flow-sheets

piping and instrumentation diagrams, layout diagrams, plot/site plans, equipment details,
architectural drawings, design sketches

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8. Scope of Modern Engineering Standards

9.

10.

Materials, properties and compositions.

Testing procedures for performance, compositions, quality.

Preferred sizes; for example, tubes, plates, sections.

Design methods, inspection, and fabrication.

Codes of practice, for plant operation and safety.

API- American Petroleum Institute

NSChE- Nigerian Society Of Chemical Engineers
SON- Standards Organization of Nigeria
ASTM- American Society for Testing Materials

Let the basis be 100 mol of gas

The reactions occurring:
) 4 + 22 2 + 22
7
) 2 6 + 2 22 + 32
2
, 2
) 95 2 = 190
7
) 5 = 17.5
2
: 207.5
25
25% , 2 =
207.5
100
= 51.875
2 = 207.5 + 51.875 = 259.375

2 21%
21
= 259.375
100
100
= 259.375
= 1235.12
21
1235.12
=
= 12.35
100

11.
Basis: 100mol/hr of dry gas

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Reaction:
+ 2 2 + 2
Since the ratio of H20 to CO is 3mol to 1mol. For 11 moles of H 2O, we have 3 X 11= 33mol of
CO
Let be the fractional conversion of CO
From the knowledge of CHE 326
SPECIES (i)

Moles in

Moles out

CO

11

11

11(1 )

33

11

33 11

8.5

+11

8.5 + 11

76.5

+11

76.5 + 11

At chemical equilibrium,
=

CO 2

; = =
2 2

(11(1 )) (33 11 )
(8.5 + 11 )(76.5 + 11 )

363 363 121 + 121 2

650.25 + 93.5 + 841.5 + 121 2

650.25 + 935 + 121 2 = 363 484 + 121 2

121 121 2 + 935 + 484 + 650.25 363 = 0()

.
= = 0
Since Q varies with temperature, we have to find a temperature where Q=0
Then use that temperature to find K p
From the table given,
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We can see that Q=0 between 550oC and 600oC. Let that temperature be T.
Using interpolation
600 550 76462 175268
=
550
0 175268
= 584.81
Interpolating again to get = 584.81
600 550
3.69 102 (1.86 102 )
=
584.81 550
1.86 102
= 3.13 102
Put ()
121 121 2 + 935 + 484 + 650.25 363 = 0
2

117.21 + 513.27 342.65 = 0

Use calculator to find
= 0.82 3.55
But conversion must be less than one
So = 0.82
Outlet composition
Moles out

Composition

11(1 )

11 1 0.82 = 1.98

33 11

33 11 = 33 11 0.82 = 23.98

8.5 + 11

8.5 + 11(0. .82) = 17.52

76.5 + 11

76.5 + 11 0.82 = 85.52

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CHE 414 2012/2013 EXAM

1.

O2
(45%)
CO2
(5%)
C10H8
(20%)
N2
(30%)

Percentage of CO2 is 100 - (20+45+30) = 5%

Since naphthalene (C10H8) mass flow rate is 100kg/hr
,

20
= 1000
100

=
2 :

45
2250
500 =
10

2 :
2 :

100 100
= 5000/
20

5
250
500 =
100

30
1500
500 =
100

Molar mass of C10H8 = (10 x 12) + (1 x 8) = 128kg/kgmol

Molar mass of O2 = 16 kg/kgmol
Molar mass of CO2 = 44 kg/kgmol
Molar mass of N2 = 14 kg/kgmol

=
10 8 :
2 :

1000

= 7.81
128

2250

= 140.63
16

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2 :
2 :

250

= 5.68
44

1500

= 107.14
14

Q2. CAN BE SOLVED USING THE SAME PROCESS AS IN Q11 OF MID SEMESTER

Q3.
1. The vapor-liquid equilibrium curve from data available at the column operating pressure
should be plotted. In terms of relative volatility

1+ 1

( )
( ).
2. Material balance is done over the column to determine the top and bottom compositions, xD
and xB, from the data given.
3. The top and bottom operating lines intersect the diagonal at , respectively; These two
points are marked on the diagram.
4. The point of intersection of the two operating lines depends on the phase condition of the
feed. This line is called the q line. The q line is found as follows:
i) Calculate the value of q
=

ii) Calculate the slope of the q-line and plot the q-line from , on the diagonal line.

1
5. Select the reflux ratio and determine the point where the top operating line intercepts the y
axis:
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+1

6. Draw in the top operating line, from on the diagonal to as seen in the fig. below.
7. Draw in the bottom operating line, from on the diagonal to the point of intersection of the
top operating line and the q line.
8. Starting at , step off the number of stages.

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3b For various q-lines:

Q4.
a)
BFD

PFD

P&ID

rectangular blocks to represent individual

Embodies the material and energy balances

Shows every mechanical aspect of the plant

processes or groups of operations, together

and the sizing of the major equipment data

regarding the process equipment and their

with quantities and other pertinent properties

include flow quantities, compositions,

interconnections except for supporting

of key streams between the blocks and into and

pressures, temperatures, and so on

structures and foundations.

from the process as a whole

b) Factors favouring continuous processes

Production rate greater than 5 X 106 kg/h

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Proven process design

Good catalyst life

No severe fouling

Established market

c) BATCHES PER YEAR = 8760

8760 = No of hours in a year i.e 365 days x 24 hours/day

d) Project Documentation
1. General correspondence within the design group and with:

government departments; equipment vendors; site personnel; the client

2. Calculation sheets

design computer print-out, costing, calculations

3. Drawings flow-sheets

piping and instrumentation diagrams, layout diagrams, plot/site plans, equipment details,
architectural drawings, design sketches

Q5.

hemispheric
al

4m

ellipsoidal
3m

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NOTE: IF THE QUESTION SAYS ABSOLUTE PRESSURE, YOU HAVE TO SUBTRACT 1 FROM
THE PRESSURE 1ST . SINCE WE ARE DEALING WITH GAUGE PRESSURE THERE IS NO NEED.

: 10%
= 16 110% = 16 1.1 = 17.6

17.6 bar

1x 105 N/m2
1 bar

1.76 x 106 N
m2

1m2
(103)2mm2

1.76 N/mm2

: 250 = 482
, , 300 500,
max , = 12.9 103
S= 1.29 x 104
lb/in2

1 N/m2
1.45 x 10-4 lb/in2

8.89 x 107 N
m2

1m2

88.9 N/mm2

(103)2mm2

E == 1 (FULLY RADIOGRAPHED)
FOR CYLINDRICAL SECTION,

1.76 3 103
=
= 27.58
2 1.2 (2 88.9 1) (1.2 1.76)

, = 27.58 + 1.5 = 29.08

FOR ELLIPSOIDAL END

=

1.76 3 103
=
= 29.76
2 0.2
2 88.9 1 0.2 1.76

FOR HEMISPHERICAL COVER

1.76 3 103
=
=
= 14.88
4 0.4
4 88.9 1 0.4 1.76

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Q6.
i)

Inside Battery Limit:

All the major process equipment, such as vessels, reactors, columns, furnaces, heat
exchangers, coolers, pumps, compressors, motors, fans, turbines, filters, centrifuges,
dryers, etc.,

Bulk items, such as piping, valves, wiring, instruments, structures, insulation, paint,
lube oils, solvents, catalysts, etc.

Civil works such as roads, foundations, piling, buildings, sewers, ditches,

embankments, etc.

Installation labor and supervision

ii) Outside battery Limit

Electric main substations, transformers, switchgear, and power lines;

Power generation plants, turbine engines, standby generators;

Boilers, steam mains, condensate lines, boiler feed water treatment plant, supply
pumps;

Cooling towers, circulation pumps, cooling water mains, cooling water treatment;

Water pipes, water demineralization, waste-water treatment plant, site drainage, and
sewers;

Air separation plants to provide site nitrogen for inert gas, nitrogen lines;

iii) Engineering and Construction costs

Detailed design engineering of process equipment, piping systems, control systems and
off-sites, plant layout, drafting, cost engineering, scale models, and civil engineering;

Procurement of main plant items and bulks;

Construction supervision and services;

Administrative charges, including engineering supervision, project management,

expediting, inspection, travel and living expenses, and home office overheads;

Bonding;

Contractors profit.

iv) Contingency charges:

Contingency charges are extra costs added into the project budget to make
allowance for:
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errors in the cost estimate;

Changes in project scope;

Changes in prices (e.g., prices of steel, copper, catalyst, etc.);

Currency fluctuations;

Labor disputes;

Subcontractor problems; and

Other unexpected problems.

b)
i)

Location factor:
The cost of building a plant in any other location will depend on: Local fabrication and

construction infrastructure, Local labor availability and cost, Costs of shipping or transporting
equipment to site, exchange rates e.t.c.
Differences in cost for other locations are often captured in cost estimating by using a location
factor, LFA:
Cost of plant in location A = cost of plant on USGC x LF A
ii) Cost Index:
Cost indices are used to update old cost data for use in estimating at the design
stage and to forecast the future construction cost of the plant.
=

iii) Materials Cost Factor:

The material cost factor is introduced when more exotic materials are used.

iv) Gross Margins:

This is the sum of product and byproduct revenues minus raw material costs.
Gross margin = Revenues -- Raw materials costs
v) Gross Profit:
Gross profit is the difference between main product revenues and CCOP (Cash Cost of
Production).
vi) Net Profit:
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Since the profit made by the plant is usually subject to taxation, the net profit (or cash
flow after tax) is the amount left after taxes are paid:
Net profit = gross profit -- taxes
vii) Total Cost of Production:
If the plant generates a specified return on investment, TCOP is necessary.
TCOP = CCOP + ACC (Annual Capital Charge)

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