A mixture of 44 mol % of a component A and 56 mol % of component B is to be separated in a distillation column. The concentration of A in the distillate is 97 mol % A and 94 % B in the bottom product. The feed is 350 kmol h-1 of mixture as liquid at bubble point. If the reflux ratio is 3.5, calculate:
a) The flow rate of product at the bottom and top of the column.
b) The number of equilibrium stages required for the separation. Show your working in corresponding diagram.
c) The minimum reflux ratio. Show your working in corresponding diagram.
d) Using a sketch of a y-x diagram show how the minimum reflux ratio can be found if the feed to the column is vapor at dew point.