Interactive Self-Study Module: Multiple Steady States in a Non-Isothermal CSTR
Overview:
This module uses screencasts and interactive simulations to explain multiple steady states in a non-isothermal CSTR. It then provides an example problem and concepTests to allow the user to test themselves. Your retention of material in this module will increase if you write down reasons for your answers to ConcepTests, questions in screencasts, and questions to answer before using interactive simulations, and you try to solve the example problem before watching the screencast solution. We suggest using the learning resources in the following order:
- Attempt to answer the multiple-choice ConcepTest and solve the example problem before watching the screencasts or working with the simulations.
- Watch the screencasts and answer the questions within the screencasts.
- Review important equations for multiple steady-states in a non-isothermal continuous stirred tank reactor.
- Use the interactive simulations to further understand the behavior of the phase diagrams.
- Try to solve the example problem before watching the solution in the screencast.
- Answer the ConcepTests.
- Look at the list of key points, but only after you try to list the key points yourself.
Motivation:
- This module is intended for a kinetics/reactor design course.
Before studying this module, you should be able to:
- Solve mass balances for a CSTR (Isothermal CSTR module).
- Calculate energy balances in CSTRs.
- Solve systems of ordinary differential equations numerically using software such as Polymath, Mathcad, MATLAB, Mathematica, etc. These equations are initial-value problems.
- Use the first law for open systems.
After studying this module, you should be able to:
- Explain the reason for multiple steady states in non-isothermal CSTRs.
- Solve the unsteady-state material and energy balances for non-isothermal CSTRs to determine the steady-state operating point.
- Generate a phase plane plot for an non-isothermal CSTR.
- Determine if a steady-state solution for an non-isothermal CSTR is a stable or unstable operating point.
- Explain what a limit cycle is for a CSTR.