What is the flow of and at valve-1? — Thermodynamics and Thermochemistry Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Valve-3 has $CH_3OH$ flow of 1000 mol/sec. Since 2/3 of the $CO$ is converted to methanol, total $CO$ entering reactor (from Valve-1) = 1000 / (2/3) = 1500 mol/sec. In the reformer, $CH_4$ + $H_2O$ → $CO$ + 3$H_2$, so $H_2$ is produced in a 3:1 ratio to $CO$. Thus, $H_2$ flow at Valve-1 = 3 × 1500 = 4500 mol/sec.