The dehydration of n-butyl alcohol (butanol) over an alumina-silica catalyst was investiga...

The dehydration of n-butyl alcohol (butanol) over an alumina-silica catalyst was investigated by JF Maurer (Ph.D. thesis, University of Michigan). The data in Figure P10-6B were obtained at 750°F in a modified differential .reactor. The feed consisted of pure butanol.

(a) Suggest a mechanism and rate-controlling step that is consistent with the experimental data.

(b) Evaluate the rate law parameters.

(c) At the point where the initial rate is a maximum, what is the fraction of vacant sites? What is the fraction of occupied sites by both A and B?

(d) What generalizations can you make from studying this problem?

(e) Write a question that requires critical thinking and then explain why your question requires critical thinking. [Hint: See Preface Section B.2.]

Figure P10-6B