ChEn 6603 – Multicomponent Mass Transfer

 

Syllabus

 

Administrative information

 Course Objectives

  • Understand the origins of mass transfer and its relationship to the equations governing conservation of mass, momentum, and energy.
  • Provide students with a sound background in the fundamentals of multicomponent mass transfer.
  • Provide exposure to simplified models for mass transfer in laminar and turbulent flows, along with algorithms to implement such models.

Prerequisites

  • A working knowledge of vector calculus, particularly gradient and divergence operators.
  • A working knowledge of fluid mechanics including the Navier Stokes equations.
  • Knowledge of equations of state, thermodynamics, and chemical kinetics.

Software Tools:

  • Many homework assignments will involve a significant amount of linear algebra as well as systems of ODEs.
  • This class covers coupled physical problems that often preclude simple analytic solutions.  For this reason, we will make use of software packages to help solve problems.  Students should be proficient in Python and Jupyter to use for homework, projects, and exams.
  • In-class examples as well as solutions to homework will be posted in Jupyter/Python.

Teaching / Learning Philosophy

I have high expectations of all students, but particularly of graduate students.  I expect that you will work hard to learn the material, and take personal responsibility for your learning.

I am here to help you learn the material, and will do my best in that regard.  I am happy to meet with you outside of class, and strongly encourage you to ask questions in and out of class on any concepts that are unclear to you.

Homework:

  • Homework assignments are intended to help students solidify concepts discussed in class, or explore concepts not fully addressed in class.  I expect that you will put significant effort into completing homework assignments, and encourage you to ask questions in and out of class.
  • Assignments are due by the beginning of class on the day indicated.
  • Homework solutions should be written up well, with a concise description of the problem as well as the full solution procedure.  Include assumptions made in formulating the solution as well as a concise outline of the algorithm for numerically intensive homework problems.
  • You are encouraged to work together and discuss problems, but each student must submit his/her own work.  Copying others? work is plagiarism and will not be tolerated.  Consequences of cheating and plagiarism include failure in this class and possible dismissal from the university.  Anything you use in your solution for homework should be properly cited if it does not represent your own work.

Tentative grading policy:

  • Homework – 35%
  • Midterm exams – 20% each
  • Final Exam – 25%

Student Resources

The University of Utah values the safety of all campus community members. To report suspicious activity or to request a courtesy escort, call campus police at 801-585-COPS (801-585-2677). You will receive important emergency alerts and safety messages regarding campus safety via text message. For more information regarding safety and to view available training resources, including helpful videos, visit safeu.utah.edu.

  • safeu.utah.edu – a collection of student resources available on campus.
  • The University counseling center 801-581-6826, available for appointments to discuss issues you may be having.
  • SafeUT – smartphone application that provides access to resources.
  • University Neuropsychiatric institute (UNI) hotline: 801-587-3000
  • Crisis intervention
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)