Question

Why are reactors often operated adiabatically instead of isothermally? How can you keep a reactor adiabatic?

Answer 1

Solution :

The decision of weather to select isothermal or adiabatic process depends on your requirement.

According to the First law of thermodynamics

Q=U+W; (Q=Heat, U=Internal Energy, W=Work done with appropriate signs)

If the process is isothermal, U=0 so all the heat given will be converted to work and you get maximum work output.

If the process is adiabatic, Q=0. If you want to analyse a process or reaction, you have to make sure no energy escape out of the system so you have to use adiabatic process.

You can keep a reactor adiabatic by stopping heat to escape out of the system.

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