More Questions from Mechanical Operations

In comminution theory, which empirical law states that the crushing energy is proportional to the new surface area created during size reduction?

Chemical Engineering Mechanical Operations Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
  • A
    Taggart’s rule
  • B
    Fick’s law
  • C
    Rittinger’s law
  • D
    None of these
  • E
    Kick’s law

Answer

Correct Answer: Rittinger’s law

Explanation

Introduction / Context:Energy–size reduction relationships help estimate power requirements and select suitable grinders. Three classic laws—Rittinger, Kick, and Bond—apply in different size ranges and fragmentation regimes.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The question asks specifically for energy proportional to new surface area.
  • Applies best to fine grinding where surface area increase is large.

Concept / Approach:Rittinger’s law: E ∝ ΔA (increase in surface area). Kick’s law: E ∝ ln(d1/d2). Bond’s law: E ∝ (1/√d2 − 1/√d1). Thus, only Rittinger directly ties energy to new surface created, matching systems where fracturing creates many fines.

Step-by-Step Solution:Identify law with energy–surface proportionality.Match to Rittinger’s statement.Select Rittinger’s law.

Verification / Alternative check:Fine grinding design commonly references Rittinger for micronization contexts, validating the selection.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:Taggart’s rule: screening/misc. correlations, not energy law.Fick’s law: diffusion, unrelated to grinding energy.Kick/Bond: different functional forms, not directly to surface area.

Common Pitfalls:Confusing Bond’s widely used work index with Rittinger’s fine-grinding emphasis.

Final Answer:Rittinger’s law

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