Chemical Engineering - Mass Transfer - Discussion

B is the correct answer.

The reflux ratio in a distillation column refers to the ratio of the condensed liquid refluxed back to the top of the column to the vapour leaving the top of the column. The minimum reflux ratio is the reflux ratio required to achieve the desired degree of separation in the distillation column with the minimum number of trays.

By operating the column at the minimum reflux ratio, the liquid leaving the bottom of the column will have the highest possible concentration of the desired product, resulting in a more efficient separation process. However, this also means that the vapour leaving the top of the column will be richer in the components that are not desired, which could lead to increased condenser size to handle the increased vapour flow.

The minimum reflux ratio does not directly impact the reboiler size. However, by operating the column at the minimum reflux ratio, the reboiler duty could potentially be reduced since less heat is required to evaporate the liquid in the column.

B is definitely the correct answer.

B is the correct answer.

At the minimum reflux ratio, the required number of trays is infinite. And reboiler and condenser load is at their minimum condition.

I think the correct Answer is option B.