FT23401 UNIT OPERATIONS IN FOOD INDUSTRIES

QUESTION BANK – Part A– 2 MARKS

UNIT 1 EVAPORATION

Question 1: Define evaporation in the context of food processing. Answer: Evaporation is the process of
converting liquid into vapor through the application of heat, often used to concentrate liquids in the food
processing industry. Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Remember

Question 2: Explain the role of boiling point elevation in evaporators. Answer: Boiling point elevation
increases the boiling temperature of the liquid, aiding in the concentration of the liquid in evaporators.
Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 3: How does the capacity of an evaporator system impact its performance? Answer: Capacity
refers to the volume of vapor produced per unit time, influencing the overall efficiency and productivity of
the evaporator. Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 4: Discuss the significance of the heat balance in the operation of evaporators. Answer: The heat
balance ensures the proper distribution of energy, optimizing the efficiency and performance of evaporators
in food processing. Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 5: Name two types of evaporators based on liquid flow patterns. Answer: Once Through
Evaporator and Circulation Evaporator. Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Remember

Question 6: How do short tube evaporators differ from long tube evaporators in terms of design? Answer:
Short tube evaporators have a compact design, while long tube evaporators have extended tube lengths,
affecting their efficiency and performance. Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 7: Describe the primary function of an agitated film evaporator. Answer: Agitated film
evaporators enhance heat transfer by creating a thin film of liquid on the heated surface, improving
efficiency. Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 8: In the context of evaporation, what does "economy" refer to? Answer: Economy in evaporation
relates to the cost-effectiveness and efficient use of energy in the process. Bloom's Taxonomy Level:
Understand

Question 9: How can the principles of evaporation be applied in the process industry, aligning with the
course outcome? Answer: Applying evaporation principles involves concentrating liquid products
efficiently, meeting the course outcome of applying methods in the process industry. Bloom's Taxonomy
Level: Apply

Question 10: Provide an example of a liquid characteristic that affects the performance of evaporators.
Answer: Viscosity is a liquid characteristic influencing the flow and heat transfer in evaporators. Bloom's
Taxonomy Level: Remember

Question 11: What is the primary objective of learning the basic principles of evaporation? Answer: The
main objective is to develop a foundational understanding that facilitates the application of evaporation
methods in the process industry. Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Remember

Question 12: How does the performance of a once-through evaporator differ from that of a circulation
evaporator? Answer: A once-through evaporator has continuous liquid flow without recirculation, while a
circulation evaporator involves recirculating liquid through the system, affecting efficiency. Bloom's
Taxonomy Level: Understand
Question 13: Discuss the impact of liquid characteristics on the overall efficiency of evaporators. Answer:
Liquid characteristics such as viscosity and density affect heat transfer and flow rates, influencing the
efficiency of evaporators. Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Analyze

Question 14: How does the boiling point elevation contribute to the concentration of liquids in evaporators?
Answer: Boiling point elevation increases the temperature, aiding in the concentration of liquids by
reducing the vapor pressure. Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 15: In what way does the heat balance of an evaporator impact its economy? Answer: The heat
balance influences the efficient use of energy, contributing to the overall economy of the evaporator system.
Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 16: Differentiate between single effect and multiple-effect evaporation systems. Answer: Single
effect uses one heating stage, while multiple-effect involves using the vapor from one stage to heat the next,
improving efficiency. Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 17: How does the liquid flow rate impact the performance of a short tube evaporator? Answer:
Liquid flow rate affects the heat transfer efficiency and concentration capabilities of a short tube evaporator.
Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Analyze

Question 18: Why is the study of evaporation principles essential for the food processing industry?
Answer: Understanding evaporation principles is crucial for optimizing processes like concentration and
preservation in the food processing industry. Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 19: Provide an example of a circumstance where the principles of evaporation might not be
applicable. Answer: In industries where liquids do not require concentration or thermal treatment, the
principles of evaporation may not be as applicable. Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Analyze

Question 20: How does the boiling point elevation impact the performance of an agitated film evaporator?
Answer: Boiling point elevation influences the temperature of the thin film, affecting heat transfer and the
overall efficiency of the agitated film evaporator. Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Analyze

Question 21: Problem: A food processing plant uses a single-effect evaporator to concentrate a fruit juice
with an initial concentration of 5% solids to a final concentration of 20% solids. If the initial volume is 1000
liters, calculate the final volume of the concentrated juice. Assume no water is added or lost during the
process.

Solution: Final Volume = (Initial Solids / Final Solids) * Initial Volume Vf=(5/20)×1000

Correct Answer: Vf=250liters Level: Apply (Bloom's Taxonomy)

Question 22: Problem: A once-through evaporator processes 500 liters of milk per hour. If the evaporation
rate is 10%, calculate the volume of vapor produced per hour.

Solution: Vapor Volume = Evaporation Rate * Processed Liquid Volume Vv=0.1×500

Correct Answer: Vv=50liters/hour Level: Apply (Bloom's Taxonomy)

Question 23: Problem: In a short tube evaporator, the liquid flow rate is 200 liters per minute, and the heat
transfer coefficient is 500 W/m²K. Calculate the heat transfer rate if the temperature difference is 10°C.

Solution: Heat Transfer Rate = U×A×ΔT

Q=500×A×10

Correct Answer: Q=5000AWatts Level: Apply (Bloom's Taxonomy)

Question 24: Problem: A circulation evaporator processes 800 liters of tomato sauce with an initial
concentration of 15% solids to a final concentration of 30% solids. Determine the mass of solids removed
during the process.

Solution: Solids Mass Removed = Initial Solids Mass - Final Solids Mass

Ms=(0.15×800)−(0.30×800)

Correct Answer: Ms=240kg Level: Apply (Bloom's Taxonomy)

Question 25: Problem: An agitated film evaporator operates with a liquid film thickness of 0.1 mm.
Calculate the heat transfer rate if the overall heat transfer coefficient is 800 W/m²K and the surface area is 2
m².

Solution: Heat Transfer Rate = U×A×ΔT

Q=800×2×0.1

Correct Answer: Q=160Watts Level: Apply (Bloom's Taxonomy)

UNIT 2 - MECHANICAL SEPARATION

Question 1: Define Filtration.

Answer: Filtration is a separation process that involves passing a fluid through a porous material to separate
solid particles from the fluid.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Remember

Question 2: Explain the purpose of filter media in filtration.

Answer: Filter media serves as the material through which filtration occurs, capturing solid particles and
allowing the passage of the fluid.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 3: Differentiate between constant rate filtration and constant pressure filtration.

Answer: Constant rate filtration maintains a consistent filtration rate, while constant pressure filtration
maintains a stable pressure throughout the process.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 4: Describe the concept of filter cake resistance in filtration.

Answer: Filter cake resistance represents the difficulty in filtration caused by the accumulation of solid
particles on the filter medium.
Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 5: What is the primary function of a rotary vacuum filter in filtration processes?

Answer: A rotary vacuum filter is designed to separate solid-liquid mixtures by utilizing vacuum pressure.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 6: Define sedimentation and its role in mechanical separation.

Answer: Sedimentation involves the settling of particles in a fluid under the influence of gravity. It plays a
crucial role in separating solid particles from liquids.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Remember

Question 7: Explain Stoke's law in the context of gravitational sedimentation.

Answer: Stoke's law describes the settling velocity of particles in a fluid under the influence of gravity,
considering factors like particle size and density.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 8: What is the principle behind gas-cyclones in mechanical separation?

Answer: Gas-cyclones separate solid particles from gas based on differences in particle size and density.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 9: Differentiate between settling under sedimentation and gravitational sedimentation.

Answer: Settling under sedimentation refers to particles settling in a fluid, while gravitational sedimentation
involves the overall settling of particles under gravity.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 10: Explain the rate of separations in centrifugal separation processes.

Answer: The rate of separations in centrifugal processes is influenced by factors such as rotational speed
and particle density.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 11: What is the primary objective of liquid-liquid separation?

Answer: Liquid-liquid separation aims to separate different liquid components from a mixture.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Remember

Question 12: Describe the purpose of a filter press in the context of mechanical separation.

Answer: A filter press is designed to separate solid-liquid mixtures efficiently in mechanical separation
processes.
Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 13: Explain the role of centrifuge equipment in liquid-liquid separation.

Answer: Centrifuge equipment is employed to separate components based on their densities in liquid-liquid
separation processes.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 14: How does gravitational sedimentation contribute to the course outcome of applying
mechanical separation principles?

Answer: Gravitational sedimentation, a fundamental separation mechanism, contributes to understanding

and applying mechanical separation principles in the process industry.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 15: Describe a scenario where constant pressure filtration would be more suitable than constant
rate filtration.

Answer: Constant pressure filtration is preferred when maintaining a stable pressure is critical, such as in
processes where pressure-sensitive materials are involved.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 16: In what way does filter cake resistance impact the efficiency of a filtration process?

Answer: Filter cake resistance increases the difficulty of filtration, potentially reducing efficiency by
impeding the flow of the filtrate.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 17: Explain the significance of understanding Stoke's law in designing sedimentation processes.

Answer: Understanding Stoke's law is crucial in predicting the settling behavior of particles, aiding in the
design of efficient sedimentation processes.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 18: Describe an industrial application where gas-cyclones play a pivotal role in mechanical
separation.

Answer: Gas-cyclones are commonly used in industries like dust collection systems, where they efficiently
separate solid particles from gas streams.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 19: How does the rate of separations in centrifugal processes impact the overall efficiency of the
separation?

Answer: The rate of separations in centrifugal processes directly influences the speed and effectiveness of
component separation, affecting overall efficiency.
Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 20: Explain how liquid-liquid separation principles can be applied to optimize a specific industrial
process.

Answer: Liquid-liquid separation principles can be applied to optimize processes in industries like
petrochemicals, improving the purity of liquid products.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 21: In a constant rate filtration process, the filtration rate is 0.5 L/min, and the process runs for 120
minutes. Calculate the total volume of filtrate produced during this time.

Answer: Possible Answer: Total volume = Filtration rate × Time Total volume = 0.5 L/min × 120 min = 60
L

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 22: A sedimentation tank has a length of 5 meters and a cross-sectional area of 2 square meters. If
the settling velocity of particles is 0.1 m/min, calculate the theoretical settling time for the particles in the
tank.

Answer: Possible Answer: Settling time = Length / Settling velocity Settling time = 5 m / 0.1 m/min = 50
min

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 23: A gas-cyclone is designed to handle an air flow rate of 500 cubic meters per hour. If the
cyclone has an efficiency of 90%, calculate the actual volume of separated particles in the cyclone.

Answer: Possible Answer: Actual volume = Air flow rate × Efficiency Actual volume = 500 m³/h × 0.9 =
450 m³/h

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 24: In a centrifuge process, the rotational speed is 1200 revolutions per minute (rpm), and the
separation factor is 500. Calculate the gravitational acceleration (g-force) experienced by the particles in the
centrifuge.

Answer: Possible Answer: Gravitational acceleration (g-force) = (Rotational speed in rpm)^2 / (1.118 ×
10^5) × Separation factor Gravitational acceleration = (1200 rpm)^2 / (1.118 × 10^5) × 500 = 1291 g

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 25: In a liquid-liquid separation using a centrifuge, the density of the heavier liquid is 900 kg/m³,
and the density of the lighter liquid is 700 kg/m³. If the rotational speed is 1500 rpm, calculate the required
separation factor for efficient separation.

Answer: Possible Answer: Separation factor = (Density difference) × (Rotational speed)^2 / (1.118 × 10^5)
Separation factor = (900 kg/m³ - 700 kg/m³) × (1500 rpm)^2 / (1.118 × 10^5) = 1490

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

 UNIT 3 - SIZE REDUCTION

Question 1: Define size reduction in the context of comminution.

Answer: Size reduction, in comminution, refers to the process of reducing the particle size of a material
through various methods such as grinding and cutting.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Remember

Question 2: What are the principles of comminuting?

Answer: The principles of comminuting involve applying mechanical forces to break down larger particles
into smaller ones, typically through grinding, cutting, or other forms of mechanical action.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 3: Explain the significance of particle size distribution in comminuted products.

Answer: Particle size distribution in comminuted products is crucial as it determines the range of particle
sizes present, influencing properties like reactivity, solubility, and flowability.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 4: How does Rittinger's law relate to size reduction?

Answer: Rittinger's law states that the work required for size reduction is directly proportional to the new
surface area created. It is applicable mainly in fine grinding processes.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 5: Discuss the construction and operation of a hammer mill.

Answer: A hammer mill consists of a rotor with hammers that impact the material. It operates by high-speed
rotation, and the material is crushed by the impact between the hammers and the screen.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 6: What is the role of crushers in size reduction operations?

Answer: Crushers are used in size reduction operations to break down large particles into smaller ones by
applying compressive forces. Common types include jaw crushers and gyratory crushers.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Remember

Question 7: Explain the concept of closed circuit grinding.

Answer: Closed circuit grinding involves recirculating the material through the grinding process to achieve a
specific particle size distribution, enhancing control over the final product.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 8: How does the principle of rolling compression apply in size reduction?

Answer: Rolling compression mills operate by compressing the material between rollers, reducing particle
size through a combination of compression and shear forces.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 9: What is the primary function of a gyratory crusher in size reduction?

Answer: A gyratory crusher primarily functions to crush large pieces of material into smaller fragments
through a gyrating motion.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Remember

Question 10: Discuss the crushing efficiency and its importance in size reduction.

Answer: Crushing efficiency measures how well a crusher reduces particle size. It's essential for assessing
the effectiveness of the size reduction process.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 11: Define the term "attrition" in the context of size reduction.

Answer: Attrition refers to the process of wearing down particles through frictional forces, typically
occurring in mills like attrition mills.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Remember

Question 12: Explain the construction and operation of a ball mill.

Answer: A ball mill consists of a rotating cylinder filled with balls, and the material to be ground. It operates
by the impact and attrition of the balls against the material.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 13: What is the primary function of grinding rolls in size reduction?

Answer: Grinding rolls in size reduction serve to compress and grind material, often used in crushing
operations.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Remember

Question 14: How does the principle of shearing apply in size reduction?

Answer: Shearing in size reduction involves the cutting or tearing of particles, contributing to the reduction
of particle size.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 15: Discuss the purpose of constant pressure filtration in size reduction operations.

Answer: Constant pressure filtration aims to maintain a consistent pressure drop across the filter medium,
enhancing filtration efficiency.
Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 16: What are the key characteristics of comminuted products?

Answer: Comminuted products exhibit properties such as particle size distribution, shape, surface area, and
bulk density, which influence their behavior in various applications.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Remember

Question 17: Explain the significance of open circuit grinding in size reduction.

Answer: Open circuit grinding involves a one-pass system where material undergoes grinding without
recirculation. It allows for coarser products and is useful in certain applications.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 18: How does Kick's law relate to the energy requirements in size reduction?

Answer: Kick's law states that the energy required for size reduction is proportional to the size reduction
ratio. It provides insights into energy consumption during grinding.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 19: Discuss the construction and operation of a rotary compression mill.

Answer: Rotary compression mills operate by compressing material between two rollers, facilitating size
reduction through compression.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand

Question 20: What is the primary function of a grinder in size reduction operations?

Answer: Grinders in size reduction are used to break down materials into smaller particles through
mechanisms like crushing, grinding, or cutting.

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Remember

Numerical Type Questions:

Question 21: Calculate the reduction ratio when the initial particle size is 50 mm, and the final particle size
is 5 mm.

Answer: Reduction Ratio = Initial Particle Size / Final Particle Size = 50 mm / 5 mm = 10

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 22: If the energy required for size reduction is 100 J and the reduction ratio is 5, calculate the
specific energy consumption.

Answer: Specific Energy Consumption = Energy Required / Reduction Ratio = 100 J / 5 = 20 J

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

 Question 23: Calculate the work input required for size reduction using Rittinger's law if the initial surface
area is 100 cm², and the final surface area is 25 cm².

Answer: Work Input = (1 / K) * (1 / S1 - 1 / S2) = (1 / K) * (1 / 100 - 1 / 25)

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 24: If the diameter of a ball mill is 2 meters and the rotational speed is 100 revolutions per
minute, calculate the critical speed of the ball mill.

Answer: Critical Speed = (g / (2 * π)) * (D)^0.5 = (9.8 / (2 * π)) * (2)^0.5

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

Question 25: Given the feed rate of a jaw crusher is 100 kg/h, and the crusher consumes 20 kW of power,
calculate the specific energy consumption.

Answer: Specific Energy Consumption = Power Consumption / Feed Rate = 20 kW / 100 kg/h

Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Apply

UNIT 4 - CONTACT EQUILIBRIUM SEPARATION

1. Question: Define gas absorption in the context of contact equilibrium separation.

Answer: Gas absorption is the process of removing one or more gases from a mixture by dissolving them in
a liquid phase.
Level: Remember
2. Question: What are the equilibrium concentration relationships in contact equilibrium separation?
Answer: Equilibrium concentration relationships describe the concentration of solutes in different phases at
equilibrium.
Level: Understand
3. Question: Explain the operating conditions in gas absorption.
Answer: Operating conditions in gas absorption involve factors like temperature, pressure, and flow rates
that affect the efficiency of the process.
Level: Understand
4. Question: Why is tower packing essential in gas absorption?
Answer: Tower packing increases the surface area for contact between gas and liquid phases, enhancing the
efficiency of gas absorption.
Level: Apply
5. Question: Differentiate between physical and chemical adsorption.
Answer: Physical adsorption involves weak forces of attraction, while chemical adsorption involves the
formation of chemical bonds between the adsorbate and adsorbent.
Level: Understand
6. Question: Name two types of adsorbents used in adsorption operations.
Answer: Activated carbon and silica gel are common types of adsorbents.
Level: Remember
7. Question: What is the primary function of absorption equipment in gas absorption?
Answer: Absorption equipment facilitates the contact between gas and liquid phases, promoting the transfer
of solutes.
 Level: Apply
8. Question: Describe the construction of packed towers used in contact equilibrium separation.
Answer: Packed towers are constructed with materials compatible with the process fluids and designed to
provide maximum contact between phases.
Level: Understand
9. Question: How does flow through packed towers influence the efficiency of gas absorption?
Answer: Flow through packed towers facilitates continuous contact between the gas and liquid phases,
optimizing the absorption process.
Level: Apply
10. Question: What is the significance of equilibrium processes in contact equilibrium separation?

Answer: Equilibrium processes ensure that a balance between phases is achieved, contributing to efficient
separation.

Level: Understand

11. Question: Explain the nature of adsorbents used in adsorption operations.

Answer: Adsorbents have a high surface area and porous structure, allowing them to attract and hold
molecules of the adsorbate.

Level: Understand

12. Question: How does the rate of gas absorption vary with the number of stages in the process?

Answer: Increasing the number of stages generally enhances the rate of gas absorption.

Level: Apply

13. Question: Discuss the properties of tower packing that make it effective in gas absorption.

Answer: Tower packing should be inert, have high surface area, and provide a large number of contact
points for efficient gas absorption.

Level: Understand

14. Question: What are the different types of adsorption operations?

Answer: Adsorption operations include physical adsorption and chemical adsorption.

Level: Remember

15. Question: How does the nature of adsorbents influence the adsorption process?

Answer: The nature of adsorbents determines their affinity for specific molecules, impacting the selectivity
of the adsorption process.

Level: Understand

16. Question: What is the role of equilibrium concentration relationships in gas absorption?
 Answer: Equilibrium concentration relationships define the distribution of solutes between the gas and
liquid phases at equilibrium.

Level: Understand

17. Question: Explain the concept of contact equilibrium in separation processes.

Answer: Contact equilibrium involves achieving a balance between phases, ensuring efficient separation in
equilibrium processes.

Level: Understand

18. Question: Why is the flow through packed towers important in gas absorption?

Answer: Flow through packed towers promotes continuous contact between the gas and liquid phases,
improving the efficiency of gas absorption.

Level: Apply

19. Question: What types of adsorption are commonly encountered in contact equilibrium separation?

Answer: Physical adsorption and chemical adsorption are commonly encountered in contact equilibrium
separation.

Level: Remember

20. Question: Describe the types of construction materials used in packed towers.

Answer: Packed towers are constructed with materials compatible with the process fluids, such as stainless
steel or corrosion-resistant alloys.

Level: Understand

21. Question: What is the significance of operating conditions in gas absorption?

Answer: Operating conditions, including temperature and pressure, influence the efficiency and
effectiveness of gas absorption.

Level: Understand

22. Question: How does the nature of adsorbents impact the selectivity of adsorption operations?

Answer: The nature of adsorbents determines their affinity for specific molecules, affecting the selectivity
of the adsorption process.

Level: Understand

Numerical Type Questions (2 Marks):

23. Question: If a gas absorption process consists of five stages, and each stage achieves a 20% reduction in the
concentration of the solute, what is the overall reduction in concentration?
 Answer: Overall reduction = (1 - 0.20)^5 = 0.3277 or 32.77%

Level: Apply

24. Question: Calculate the efficiency of a packed tower in gas absorption if it has a surface area of 100 m² and
absorbs 80% of the incoming gas. Express the efficiency as a percentage.

Answer: Efficiency = (Absorbed gas / Incoming gas) * 100 = (0.80) * 100 = 80%

Level: Apply

25. Question: In an adsorption process, if the adsorbent has a surface area of 50 m² and adsorbs 60% of the
incoming molecules, calculate the amount of molecules adsorbed. Assume the incoming molecules are 1000.

Answer: Molecules adsorbed = Surface area * Adsorption efficiency = 50 * (0.60) = 30

Level: Apply
UNIT V - EXTRACTION AND CRYSTALLIZATION

1. Question: Define extraction in the context of contact equilibrium separation. How is the rate of extraction
influenced by the choice of solvent?
 Correct Answer: Extraction is a separation process involving the transfer of solute from a solid or
liquid phase to a solvent. The rate of extraction is influenced by factors such as solvent properties,
temperature, and solute concentration.
 Level: Understand
2. Question: Explain the concept of multistage extraction. How does it enhance the efficiency of the extraction
process?
 Correct Answer: Multistage extraction involves passing the solvent through multiple stages to
improve solute transfer. It enhances efficiency by maintaining a concentration gradient, allowing for
increased solute extraction.
 Level: Understand
3. Question: Describe the equipment used for leaching coarse solids in the extraction process. How does it
differ from equipment used for fine material extraction?
 Correct Answer: Equipment for leaching coarse solids includes basket extractors. Fine material
extraction often involves the use of Dorr agitators. Coarse and fine material extraction equipment
differs in design and application.
 Level: Understand
4. Question: What is continuous leaching-decantation, and how does it contribute to the efficiency of
extraction processes?
 Correct Answer: Continuous leaching-decantation involves a continuous flow of solvent, promoting
continuous separation. It enhances efficiency by ensuring a constant supply of fresh solvent for
effective solute removal.
 Level: Understand
5. Question: Explain the operation of extraction towers. How do they facilitate large-scale extraction
processes?
 Correct Answer: Extraction towers use counter-current flow to optimize solute transfer. They
facilitate large-scale extraction by providing a controlled environment for efficient mass transfer
between phases.
 Level: Understand
6. Question: Define crystallization and discuss the significance of equilibrium in the process. How does
equilibrium crystallization differ from other forms of crystallization?
  Correct Answer: Crystallization is a separation process involving the formation of crystals from a
solution. Equilibrium is crucial for determining the solubility and precipitation balance. Equilibrium
crystallization relies on maintaining this balance, distinguishing it from other crystallization methods.
 Level: Understand
7. Question: Explain the rate of crystal growth in crystallization processes. How does it impact the quality of
the final crystal product?
 Correct Answer: The rate of crystal growth refers to the speed at which crystals form. It influences
the size and quality of the crystal product, with slower growth often yielding larger and purer
crystals.
 Level: Understand
8. Question: Discuss the construction and operation of tank crystallizers. How are they employed in industrial
crystallization?
 Correct Answer: Tank crystallizers are vessels for batch crystallization. They operate by cooling a
solution to induce crystallization. Their construction involves a tank with cooling coils or jackets,
and they find application in various industries for producing crystalline products.
 Level: Understand
9. Question: What distinguishes agitated batch crystallizers from other types of crystallization equipment?
How does the agitation process impact crystallization?
 Correct Answer: Agitated batch crystallizers involve mechanical agitation to promote crystal
growth. This agitation ensures uniform mixing and heat transfer, enhancing the efficiency of the
crystallization process.
 Level: Understand
10. Question: Explain the operation and purpose of Swenson-Walker vacuum crystallizers. How do they
contribute to efficient crystallization?
 Correct Answer: Swenson-Walker vacuum crystallizers operate under reduced pressure to lower the
boiling point, promoting rapid crystallization. They contribute to efficient crystallization by creating
favorable conditions for crystal growth.
 Level: Understand
11. Question: How does the solubility and equilibrium diagram play a crucial role in the crystallization
process? Provide an example to illustrate its significance.
 Correct Answer: The solubility and equilibrium diagram represents the relationship between solute
concentration, temperature, and solvent. It guides the crystallization process by indicating conditions
favorable for crystal formation. For instance, cooling a saturated solution beyond its solubility point
results in crystal precipitation.
 Level: Apply
12. Question: Describe the concept of equilibrium crystallization and its advantages over non-equilibrium
methods. How does it contribute to the production of high-quality crystals?
 Correct Answer: Equilibrium crystallization maintains a balance between solubility and
precipitation, yielding high-quality crystals with consistent properties. This approach ensures
controlled conditions, reducing impurities and enhancing crystal purity.
 Level: Understand
13. Question: How does the rate of extraction influence the choice of extraction equipment for leaching coarse
solids? Provide examples of equipment suited for different extraction rates.
 Correct Answer: The rate of extraction determines the choice of equipment. For higher extraction
rates, basket extractors are suitable, while for fine material extraction, Dorr agitators are effective due
to their design facilitating efficient mass transfer.
 Level: Apply
14. Question: Explain the operation of a Dorr agitator in the extraction of fine material. What advantages does
it offer in comparison to other extraction equipment?
 Correct Answer: A Dorr agitator facilitates fine material extraction through mechanical agitation.
Its advantages include uniform mixing, improved mass transfer, and suitability for applications
where precision is crucial.
 Level: Understand
15. Question: Discuss the significance of continuous leaching-decantation systems in the extraction process.
How do these systems overcome challenges associated with batch processes?
 Correct Answer: Continuous leaching-decantation systems ensure a constant supply of fresh
solvent, overcoming challenges associated with batch processes such as variations in solvent quality.
This continuous flow enhances extraction efficiency.
 Level: Understand
16. Question: Explain the principles of equilibrium crystallization and how it differs from dynamic
crystallization methods. Provide examples of when equilibrium crystallization is preferred.
 Correct Answer: Equilibrium crystallization maintains a solubility balance, producing crystals of
consistent quality. It differs from dynamic methods by avoiding sudden changes in conditions.
Equilibrium crystallization is preferred when precise control over crystal properties is crucial, such as
in pharmaceutical or semiconductor industries.
 Level: Apply
17. Question: How do extraction towers facilitate large-scale extraction processes? Discuss the advantages of
their counter-current flow design.
 Correct Answer: Extraction towers use counter-current flow to optimize mass transfer, ensuring
efficient extraction. The counter-current design allows for continuous separation and is advantageous
for large-scale processes, providing a controlled environment for effective solute removal.
 Level: Apply
18. Question: Discuss the role of tank crystallizers in industrial crystallization. How does their construction
contribute to the efficient production of crystalline products?
 Correct Answer: Tank crystallizers play a vital role in industrial crystallization by providing a
vessel for batch crystallization. Their construction, with cooling coils or jackets, facilitates controlled
cooling, ensuring efficient crystal growth and the production of high-quality crystalline products.
 Level: Apply
19. Question: What distinguishes Swenson-Walker vacuum crystallizers from other crystallization equipment?
How does their operation under reduced pressure impact the crystallization process?
 Correct Answer: Swenson-Walker vacuum crystallizers operate under reduced pressure, lowering
the boiling point and promoting rapid crystallization. This unique operation distinguishes them from
other crystallization equipment, contributing to efficient crystal formation.
 Level: Apply
20. Question: Explain how agitation in agitated batch crystallizers influences the efficiency of crystallization.
Provide examples of applications where agitated batch crystallizers are particularly beneficial.
 Correct Answer: Agitation in agitated batch crystallizers ensures uniform mixing and heat transfer,
enhancing crystal growth efficiency. These crystallizers are beneficial in applications where precise
control over crystal size and quality is essential, such as in pharmaceutical or specialty chemical
industries.
 Level: Apply
21. Question: Describe the construction and operation of a basket extractor used in the extraction of coarse
solids. How does its design contribute to effective leaching?
 Correct Answer: A basket extractor features a perforated basket to hold solids. Solvent flows
through the basket, facilitating leaching. The design of the basket extractor ensures optimal contact
between the solvent and coarse solids, promoting effective leaching.
 Level: Understand
22. Question: Explain the operation of continuous leaching-decantation systems in the extraction process. How
do these systems address challenges associated with batch processes?
 Correct Answer: Continuous leaching-decantation systems involve a continuous flow of solvent
through the system, promoting continuous separation. These systems overcome challenges associated
with batch processes, such as variations in solvent quality, by ensuring a constant supply of fresh
solvent, enhancing extraction efficiency.
 Level: Understand
23. Question: Discuss the principles of equilibrium crystallization and its advantages over non-equilibrium
methods. How does it contribute to the production of high-quality crystals?
  Correct Answer: Equilibrium crystallization maintains a balance between solubility and
precipitation, resulting in high-quality crystals with consistent properties. This approach ensures
controlled conditions, reducing impurities and enhancing crystal purity, contributing to the
production of superior crystals.
 Level: Apply
24. Question: Explain the significance of the solubility and equilibrium diagram in the crystallization process.
How can this diagram guide the production of crystals with specific properties?
 Correct Answer: The solubility and equilibrium diagram represents the relationship between solute
concentration, temperature, and solvent. It guides the crystallization process by indicating conditions
favorable for crystal formation, allowing for the production of crystals with specific properties based
on controlled conditions.
 Level: Apply
25. Question: How does the rate of crystal growth impact the quality of the final crystal product in
crystallization processes? Provide examples to illustrate the correlation between growth rate and crystal
quality.
 Correct Answer: The rate of crystal growth influences the size and quality of the crystal product.
Slower growth often results in larger and purer crystals. For instance, controlled cooling in
crystallization processes can lead to slower growth, yielding crystals with desirable properties in
terms of size and purity.
 Level: Apply