The homogeneous gas reaction A→3R follows second-order kinetics. For a feed rate of 6 m 3 /hr of pure. A at 5 atm and 350ºC ,an experimental reactor consisting of a 2.5 cm ID pipe 2 m long give 60 % conversion of feed. A commercial plant is to treat 320 m3 /hr of feed consisting of 50 % A, 50% inerts at 25 atm and 350ºC to obtain 80 % conversion.
(a)How many 2-m lengths of 2.5 cm ID pipe are required?
(b)Should they be placed in parallel or in series? Assume plug flow in the pipe, negligible pressure drop, and ideal gas behavior.