PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]

1 Chemical Engineering
.General Aptitude.

Q.1 to Q.5 Carry one mark each

Q.1 Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award was conferred___Mary Kom, a six-time world champion in boxing,
recently in a ceremony _____ the Rashtrapati Bhawan (the President’s official residence) in New Delhi.
(A) to, at (B) on, at (C) On, in (D) With, at
Ans. A
Q.2 Despite a string of poor performances, the chances of K.L. Rahul’s selection in the team are___.
(A) slim (B) bright (C) uncertain (D) obvious
Ans. (B)
Sol. Despite is used as a preposition when a something happens even though it might have been prevented (i.e.
in contrast).
∴ Opposite of poor performance is bright.
Hence, the correct option is (B).
Q.3 Select the word that fits the analogy:
Cover : Uncover : : Associate : ____
(A) Unassociate (B) Dissociate (C) Inassociate (D) Misassociate
Ans. (B)
Sol. Uncover is the antonym of cover. So, antonym of associate is dissociate.
Hence, the correct option is (B).
Q.4 Hit by floods, the Kharif (summer sown) crops in various parts of the country have been affected. Officials
believe that the loss in production of the kharif crops can be recovered in the output of the rabi (winter
sown) crops so that the country can achieve its food-grain production target of 291 million tons in the crop
year 2019-20 (July-June). They are hopeful that good rains in July-August will help the soil retain moisture
for a longer period, helping winter sown crops such as wheat and pulses during the November-February
period.
Which of the following statements can be inferred from the given passage?
(A) Officials want the food-grain production target to be met by the November-February period.
(B) Officials feel that the food-grain production target cannot be met due to floods.
(C) Officials declared that the food-grain production target will be met due to good rains.
(D) Officials hope that the food-grain production target will be met due to good rabi produce.
Ans. (D)
Sol. Officials are hopeful that good rains in July-August will help to recover loss in longer period. Therefore,
it can be inferred from the passage that the officials hope that the food grain production target will be met
due to great rabi produce.
Hence, the correct options is (D).
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
2 Chemical Engineering
Q.5 The difference between the sum of the first 2n natural numbers and the sum of the first n odd numbers is
(A) 2n − n (B) n 2 − n (C) 2n + n (D) nn + n
Ans. (D)
Sol. The difference between the sum of first ‘2n’ natural numbers and the sum of the first ‘n’ odd positive
integers are as follows
First ‘2n’ natural numbers are as follows :
1, 2,3,.........2n
Number of terms
Sum = × [First term × 2 + (Number of terms – 1) × Common difference]
2
2n
= [2 ×1 + (2 n − 1) ×1]
2
= n (2 + 2n − 1) = n(2n + 1) = 2n 2 + n
First ‘n’ odd positive integers are : 1,3,5,.......n
n
Sum = [2 ×1 + (n − 1) × 2]
2
n
= [2 + 2n − 2] = n 2
2
Difference = 2n 2 + n − n 2 = n 2 + n
Hence, the correct option is (D).
Q.6 to Q.10 Carry two marks each
Q.6 Repo rate is the rate at which Reserve Bank of India (RBI) lends commercial banks, and reverse repo rate
is the rate at which RBI borrows money from commercial banks.
Which of the following statements can be inferred from the above passage?
(A) Decrease in repo rate will decrease cost of borrowing and increase lending by commercial banks.
(B) Decrease in repo rate will increase cost of borrowing and decrease lending by commercial banks.
(C) Increase in repo rate will decrease cost of borrowing and decrease lending by commercial banks.
(D) Increase in repo rate will increase cost of borrowing and Increase lending by commercial banks.
Ans. (A)
Sol. Repo rate is the rate at which RBI lends commercial banks. The decrease in repo rate increases the flow
of money in the economy, hence, increase leading by commercial banks and decrease cost of borrowing.
Hence, the correct option is (A).
Q.7 P,Q,R,S,T,U,V, and W are seated around a circular table.
(i) S is seated opposite to W.
(ii) U is seated at the second place to the right of R.
(iii)T is seated at the third place to the left of R.
(iv) V is a neighbor of S.
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
3 Chemical Engineering
Which of the following must be true?
(A) P is not seated opposite to Q (B) R is the left neighbor of S
(C) Q is a neighbor of R (D) P is a neighbor of R
Ans. (A)
Sol. The seating arrangement of P, Q, R ,S ,T, U, V and W around a circular table can be as follows
S
R V

P/Q T

U P/Q
W
So, the statement which must be true is P is not seated opposite to Q.
Hence, the correct option is (A).
Q.8 The distance between Delhi and Agra is 233 km. A car P started travelling from Delhi to Agra and another
car Q started from Agra to Delhi along the same road 1 hour after the car P started. The two cars crossed
each other 75 minutes after the car Q started. Both cars were travelling at constant speed. The speed of
car P was 10km/hr more than the speed of car Q. How many kilometers the car Q had travelled when the
cars crossed each other?
(A) 116.5 (B) 88.2 (C) 66.6 (D) 75.2
Ans. (D)
Sol. Given : The distance between Delhi and Agra is 233 km.
233km
Delhi ⎯⎯⎯ → Agra
Car P → ← Car Q
Car P and Q crossed each other 75 minutes after the car Q started.
Let x km be the distance covered by Car Q in 75 minutes.
x 4x
∴ Speed at Car Q = km/hr = km/hr
75 5
60
4x
∴ Speed at Car P = + 10 km/hr
5
9
This distance has been covered by car P = 1hr and 75 min = hr
4
∴ The distance covered by car P till the point of crossing = (233 − x)
The distance travelled by car Q is given by
9  4x 
(233 − x) =  + 10 
4 5 
x = 75.2 km
Hence, the correct option is (D).
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
4 Chemical Engineering
Q.9 For a matrix M =  m ij  ; i, j = 1, 2, 3, 4 the diagonal elements are all zero and mij = − m ji . The minimum
number of elements required to fully specify the matrix is_______.
(A) 12 (B) 16 (C) 6 (D) 0
Ans. (C)
Sol. Given matrix M = [muij ] , i, j = 1, 2,3, 4 and the diagonal elements are all zero and mij = − m ji . So we can
represent the matrix as follows :
0 – – –
– 0 – –
– – 0 –
– – – 0
The numbers which are connected by arrows will be the same in magnitude and opposite in sign.
So the minimum number of elements required to fully specify the matrix is just 6 and other will be known
accordingly.
Hence, the correct option is (C).
Q.10 The profit shares of two companies P and Q are shown in the figure. If the two companies have invested
a fixed and equal amount every year, then the ratio of the total revenue of company P to the total revenue
of company Q, during 2013 – 2018 is ______.
70
Company P
60
Company Q
50
Profit percentage

40

30

20

10

0
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
Year
(A) 15 : 17 (B) 16 : 17 (C) 17 : 15 (D) 17 : 16
Ans. (B)
Sol. Basic concept : Revenue = Profit + Investment
According to the question, a basic amount is invested by the two companies, let it be 100 and the profit of
both the companies is given in the graph.
So according to the graph,
Total revenue of company P
=?
Total revenue of company Q
(100 + 10) + (100 + 20) + (100 + 40)
+ (100 + 40) + (100 + 50) + (100 + 40)
= = 16 :17
(100 + 20) + (100 + 30) + (100 + 30)
+ (100 + 50) + (100 + 60) + (100 + 60)
Hence, the correct option is (B)
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
5 Chemical Engineering
.Technical Section.

Q.1 to Q.25 Carry one mark each

Q.1 Which one of the following methods requires specifying an initial interval containing the root (i.e.,
bracketing) to obtain the solution of f ( x) = 0 , where f ( x) is a continuous non-linear algebraic function?
(A) Regula falsi method (B) Newton- Rephson method
(C) Secant method (D) Fixed point iteration method
Ans. (A)
Q.2 Consider the hyperbolic function in Group 1 and their definitions in Group 2.
Group 1 Group 2
e x + e− x
P. tanh x (i)
e x − e− x
2
Q. coth x (ii)
e + e− x
x

2
R. sech x (iii)
e − e− x
x

e x − e− x
S. cosechx (iv)
e x + e− x
The correct combination is
(A) P – IV, Q – I, R – III, S – II (B) P – II, Q – III, R – I, S – IV
(C) P – IV, Q – I, R – II, S – III (D) P – I, Q – II, R – IV, S – III
Ans. (C)
Q.3 Consider the following continuously differentiable function
v ( x, y, z ) = 3 x 2 y i + 8 y 2 z j + 5 xyz k
Where i, j and k represent the respective unit vectors along the x, y and z directions in the Cartesian
coordinate system. The curl of this function is
(A) y (11x + 16 z ) (B) −3 x 2 i − 8 y 2 j + 5 z ( x + y ) k
(C) 6 xy i − 16 yz j + 5 xy k (D) (5 xz − 8 y 2 )i − 5 yz j − 3 x 2 k
Ans. (D)
Sol. Given : V ( x, y, z ) = 3x 2 yiˆ + 8 y 2 zjˆ + 5 xyzkˆ

iˆ ˆj kˆ
∂ ∂ ∂
∇ ×V =
∂x ∂y ∂z
3x 2 y 8 y 2 z 5 xyz
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
6 Chemical Engineering
∇ × V = iˆ [5 xz − 8 y 2 ] − ˆj [5 yz ] + kˆ [−3 x 2 ]

∇ × V = [5 xz − 8 y 2 ] iˆ − [5 yz ] ˆj + [−3x 2 ] kˆ
Hence, the correct option is (D)
Q.4 Consider the following unit step function.
f (t )

t
3
The Laplace transform of this function is
e −3s e −3 s e −3 s e −6s
(A) (B) (C) (D)
s s2 3s s
Ans. (A)
Sol. Given : From figure the function
0; 0<t <3
f (t ) = 
1; 3<t <∞
Now taking Laplace transform,
∞
L[ f (t )] =  e − st ⋅ f (t )dt
0

3 ∞
L[ f (t )] =  f (t )e − st dt +  f (t )e − st dt
0 3

3 ∞
L[ f (t )] =  0e − st dt +  1.e − st dt
0 3

∞
 e − st 
L[ f (t )] = 0 +  
 −s 3
e −∞ e − s×3
L[ f (t )] = −
−s −s
e −3 s
L[ f (t )] = 0 +
s
e−3s
L[ f (t )] =
s
Hence, the correct option is (A).
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
7 Chemical Engineering
Q.5 In a constant-pressure cake filtration with an incompressible cake layer, volume of the filtrate (V) is
measured as a function of time t. The plot of t / V versus V results in a straight line with an intercept of
104 s m−3 . Area of the filter is 0.05m2 ,viscosity of the filtrate is 10−3 Pa s, and the overall pressure drop
across the filter is 200 kPa . The value of the filter-medium resistance (in m−1 ) is
(A) 1 × 109 (B) 1× 1011 (C) 1× 1012 (D) 1× 1010
Ans. (B)
Rm × μ
Sol. = 10 4
AΔp

4 Rm ×10−3
10 =
0.05 × 2,00 ×1000
108 = Rm × 10 −3

108
 Rm =
10 −3
Rm = 1011 m −1
Hence, the correct option is (B).
Q.6 In a laboratory experiment, a unit pulse input of tracer is given to an ideal plug flow reactor operating at
steady state with a recycle ration, R = 1 . The exit age distribution E (t ) , of the tracer at the outlet of the
reactor is measured. The first four pulses observed at t1 , t2 , t3 , and t4 are shown below.

Plug flow reactor E(t ), s–1

t=0
R=1 t 1 t2 t3 t4
Time, s
In addition, use the following data and assumptions
• R is defined as ratio of the volume of fluid returned to the entrance of the reactor to the volume leaving
the system
• No reaction occurs in the reactor
• Ignore any dead volume in the recycle loop
If the space time of the plug flow reactor is τ seconds, which one of the following is correct?
τ 3τ
(A) t1 = τ, t2 = 2τ, t3 = 3τ, t4 = 4τ (B) t1 = , t2 = τ, t3 = , t4 = 2τ
2 2
τ 2τ 4τ τ τ τ τ
(C) t1 = , t2 = , t3 = τ, t4 = (D) t1 = , t2 = , t3 = , t4 =
3 3 3 2 4 8 16
Ans. (B)
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
8 Chemical Engineering
Sol. We know that, an ideal PFR delays the traces profile by the time τ p , where τ p is the space time defined
as
Vol. of reactor
Space time, τp =
Vol flow rate at entrance
So, here in case of PFR with recycle stream,
V V τp
τ p' = = =
( R + 1)V0 2V0 2
τp
So, first pulse will leave at, t1 = τ p' =
2
Second pulse will leave at, t2 = τ p' + τ p' = τ p
Third pulse will leave at,
3
t3 = τ p' + τ p' + τ p = τ p
2
τp
t 4 = t3 + = 2τ p
2
L2 k
Q.7 The square of Thiele modulus, M T , is given by M T2 = , where L is the characteristic length of the
Deff
catalyst pellet, k is the rate constant of a first order reaction, and D eff is the effective diffusivity of the
species in the pores. M T2 is a measure of
rate of reaction rate of pore diffusion
(A) (B)
rate of external mass transfer rate of reaction
time scale of reaction time scale of pore diffusion
(C) (D)
time scale of pore diffusion time scale of reaction
Ans. (C)
( MT )
2
Sol. = L2 k / Deff

( MT ) = K / Deff .L
rx n rate
=
Diffusion rate
= characteristic Length

intrinsic rx n rate
Thiele modulus α
Diffusion rate
Thiele modulus = reaction rate / diffusion rate
rate α 1/time
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
9 Chemical Engineering
So,
Time scale of the limiting
transport mechanism
(not necesary diffusion)
Thiele modulus =
Time scale of intrinsic
reaction kinetics
time scale of pore diffusion
Finally ( M T ) is measure of
2

Time scale of reaction

Q.8 Hot-wire anemometer is used for the measurement of
(A) composition (B) flow (C) pressure (D) temperature
Ans. (B)
Sol. Hot wire anemometer → flow [velocity]
Hence, the correct option is (B).
Q.9 Pure gas P is being absorbed into a liquid. The dissolved P undergoes an irreversible reaction in the liquid
film. The reaction is first order with respect to P. Which one of the following represents the concentration
profile of P in the liquid film at steady state?

(A) (B)

(C) (D)

Ans. (B)
Sol. As P absorbed into liquid, conc, continuously decreases with distance from interface for I st order reaction
conc. Decreases exponentially.
Hence, the correct option is (B).
Q.10 Consider a batch distillation process for an equimolar mixture of benzene and toluene at atmospheric
pressure. The mole fraction of benzene in the distillate collected after 10 minutes is 0.6. The process in
further continued for additional 10 minutes. The mole fraction of benzene in the total distillate collected
after 20 minutes of operation is
(A) Less than 0.6 (B) Exactly equal to 0.7 (C) Greater than 0.7 (D) Exactly equal to 0.6
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
10 Chemical Engineering
Ans. (A)
Sol. As Distillation progresses, more volatile vaporizes but less volatile also comes into action and vaporizes,
making the mole fraction of more volatile in the vapor low. That’s why if Distillation progresses for
additional 10 minutes then more volatile fraction decreases in the top product.
Hence, the correct option is (A).
Q.11 Which one of the following is NOT CORRECT?
(A) NYLON-6,6 is produced by condensation polymerization.
(B) Phenol-formaldehyde resin is a thermosetting polymer
(C) High density polyethylene (HDPE) is produced by condensation polymerization
(D) Poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is a polyester
Ans. (C)
Sol. High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is produced by Low pressure polymerization in fluidized bed reactor
at 25kg/cm2 and 100° C using Ziegler-Natta catalyst by addition type kinetics.
Hence, the correct option is (C).
Q.12 The operating temperature range for the Haber process is 350-500°C. It is used for the production of
ammonia at
(A) 20 MPa using Fe catalyst in an exothermic reaction
(B) 0.1 MPa using Fe catalyst in an exothermic reaction
(C) 20 MPa using Fe catalyst in an endothermic reaction
(D) 20 MPa using zeolite catalyst in an endothermic
Ans. (A)
Sol. The iron catalyst is used with added promoters for ammonia synthesis e.g. aluminum oxides, zirconium
or silicone. These prevent sintering, and the catalyst becomes more porous. Iron catalysts quickly lose
their activity, when heated above 520 ° C. Depending on the conversion required the pressure is around
100-1000 atm.
Hence, the correct option is (A).
Q.13 Consider the refinery processes in Group-I and the catalysts in Group-II
Group-I Group-II
P Hydrodesulphurization I Zeolites
Q Fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) II Pt/Al2O3
R Naphtha reforming III Co-Mo/ Al2O3
The correct combination is
(A) P-II, Q-I, R-III (B) P-III, Q-II, R-I (C) P-III, Q-I, R-II (D) P-I, Q-III, R-II
Ans. (C)
Sol. Hydrodesulfurization (HDS) or Hydrotreating is a catalytic chemical process that is widely used to remove
sulfur compounds from refined petroleum products such as petrol or gasoline. In fact, most HDS systems
in petroleum refineries use cobalt-modified molybdenum disulfide (MoS2)-based catalysts along with
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
11 Chemical Engineering
smaller quantities of other metals. Nickel and tungsten are also used aside from the MoS2 catalysts,
depending on the nature of the feed.
Fluid catalytic cracking is now major secondary conversion process in Petroleum refinery using Zeolite
catalyst.
Platinum supported on porous alumina is used as a catalyst in Catalytic reforming unit.
Hence, the correct option is (C).
Q.14 Consider the processes in Croup - 1 and the reactions in Group - 2
Group – 1 Group 2
P Solvay process I RCOOH + NaOH → RCOONa + H2O
Q Oxo process II CH2= CH2 +CO +H2 → CH3CH2CHO
R Saponification III CaCO3 + 2NaCl → Na2CO3 +CaCl2
The correct combination is
(A) P-II, Q-I, R-III (B) P -III, Q- II, R-I (C) P -III, Q- I, R-II (D) P -I, Q-III, R-II
Ans. (B)
Sol. Sodium carbonate (Soda Ash) is manufactured by following process. 1. Leblanc process. 2. Solvay‘s
ammonia soda process. 3. Dual process (modified Solvay‘s process) 4. Electrolytic process. In Solvay
process Common Salt (NaCl) and limestone (CaCO3) are used as a raw material.
CaCO3 + 2NaCl → Na2CO3 + CaCl2
Hydroformylation, commonly referred to as the "oxo" process, is a Co or Rh catalyzed reaction of olefins
with CO and H2 to produce value-added aldehydes.
2
R2 R
R2 H H
CO/H2 R3 R3
R
3 1
R + R1
R1 H C
C H O H
H H O
Saponification is simply the process of making soaps. Soaps are just potassium or sodium salts of long-
chain fatty acids. During saponification, ester reacts with an inorganic base to produce alcohol and soap.
it occurs when triglycerides are reacted with potassium or sodium hydroxide (lye) to produce glycerol and
fatty acid salt, called ‘soap’.
O
CH2O C(CH2) nCH3
O CH2OH
O
CH2O C(CH2) nCH3 3NaOH CH2OH 3NaO C(CH2)nCH3
O

CH2O C(CH2) nCH3 CH2OH

A Triglceride Caustic Soda Glycerine Metal Soap

Hence, the correct option is (B).
Q.15 Annual capacity of a plant producing phenol is 100 metric tons. Phenol sells at INR 200per kg , and its
production cost is 200per kg . The sum of annual fixed charges, overhead costs and general expenses is
INR 30, 00, 000. Taxes are payable at 18 % on gross profit. Assuming the plant runs at full capacity ad
that all the phenol produced is sold, the annual net profit of the plant (in INR) is
(A) 98, 40, 000 (B) 1, 50, 00, 000 (C) 1, 20, 00, 000 (D) 1, 39, 40, 000
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
12 Chemical Engineering
Ans. (A)
Sol. Annual Production capacity= 100 metric ton
= 100 ×103 kg = 1×105 kg
Phenol selling price = 200 Rs/kg
Production cost = 50 Rs/kg
Annual total expenses = 30, 00, 000 = 3 ×106 Rs/year
Taxes = 18 % of gross profit
Annual return = Annual production × selling price
= 1×105 kg/year × 200 Rs/kg
= 2 ×107 Rs/year
Annual expenses = Annual production × production cost + other total expenses
= 1×105 kg/year × 50 Rs/kg + 3 ×106 Rs/year
= 5 ×106 Rs/year + 3 ×106 Rs/year = 8 ×106 Rs/year
Annual net profit of the plant = Gross profit after tax
= 12 × 106 − (12 × 106 ) ×18%

= (12 × 106 ) [1 − .18]

= 9.84 ×106 = 98, 40, 000

Hence, the correct option is (A)
Q.16 A rigid spherical particle undergoes free settling in a liquid of density 750kg m−3 and viscosity 9.81× 10 −3
Pa s. Density of the particle is 3000kg m−3 and the particle diameter is 2 × 10 −4 m . Acceleration due to
gravity is 9.81ms−2 . Assuming stokes’ law to be valid, the terminal settling velocity (in m s −1 ) of the
particle is
(A) 4 × 10−3 (B) 3 ×10−3 (C) 2 × 10−3 (D) 5 ×10−3
Ans. (D)
Sol.
g × D p2 × (ρ p − p)
Vt =
18 × μ
9.81× (2 ×10− 4 ) 2 × (3000 − 750)
Vt =
18 × 9.81×10− 3
Vt = 5 ×10− 3
Hence, the correct option is (D).
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
13 Chemical Engineering
Q.17 Consider an incompressible flow of a constant property fluid over a smooth, thin and wide flat plate. The
free stream flows parallel to the surface of the plate along its length and its velocity is constant. Value of
the Reynolds number at a distance of 2.0 m from the leading edge of the plate is 8000. The flow within
the boundary layer at a distance of 1.0 m from the leading edge of the plate is
(A) Laminar (B) Turbulent
(C) Transitioning from laminar to turbulent (D) Inviscid
Ans. (A)
Sol. Reynolds number is low over a flat plate so flow is laminar.
Hence, the correct option is (A).
Q.18 Ratio of momentum diffusivity to thermal diffusivity is
(A) Peclet number (B) Nusselt number (C) Reynolds number (D) Prandtl number
Ans. (D)
Sol. Prandtl number is the ratio of momentum diffusivity to thermal diffusivity.
Hence, the correct option is (D).
Q.19 Mole fraction and activity coefficient of component 1 in a binary liquid mixture are x1 and γ1 ,
respectively. G E is excess molar Gibbs energy of the mixture, R is universal gas constant and T is absolute
temperature of the mixture. Which one of the following is always true?
GE GE
(A) lim γ1 = 0.5 (B) lim =0 (C) lim = 0.5 (D) lim γ1 = 0
x1 →1 x1 →1 RT x1 →1 RT x1 →1

Ans. (B)
GE
Sol. = AX 1 X 2
RT
GE
lim = 0 (At X 2 = 0)
X1 →1 RT

Hence, the correct option is (B).

Q.20 Leiden frost phenomena is true for
(A) Condensation of vapor on a cold surface
(B) The melting of frost
(C) The exchange of heat between two solids
(D) Film boiling evaporation of liquid droplets falling on a very hot surface
Ans. (D)
Sol. Film boiling evaporation of liquid droplets falling on a very hot surface
Hence, the correct option is (D)
Q.21 An irreversible gas phase reaction 2 P → 4Q + R is conducted in an isothermal and isobaric batch reactor.
Assume ideal gas behavior. The feed is an equimolar mixture of the reactant P and inert gas. After
complete conversion of P, the fraction change in volume is ________(round off to 2 decimal places).
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
14 Chemical Engineering
Ans. 0.75
Sol. ξ A = y Aδ A
5−2 3
δA = =
2 2
3
ξ A = × 0.5
2
ξ A = 0.75
Hence, the correct answer is 0.75
Q.22 Consider two carnot engines C1 and C2 as shown in the figure.
Reservoir R1

C1

Reservoir R2

C2

Reservoir R3

The efficiencies of the engines C1 and C2 are 0.40 and 0.35, respectively. If the temperature of Reservoir
R1 is 800 K, then the temperature (in K) of Reservoir R3 is _____(round off to nearest integer)
Ans. 312
Sol. T3 = ?
T2
n1 = 1 −
T1
T2
0.4 = 1 −
800
T2
= 0.6  T2 = 480 K
800
T
 n2 = 1 − 3
T2
T3
0.35 = 1 −
4θ0
T3
 0.65 =
480
 T3 = 312 K
Hence, the correct answer is 312.
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
15 Chemical Engineering
Q.23 Consider the following closed loop system with G p and Gc as the transfer function of the process and the
controller, respectively.

For a unit step change in the set point ( ysp ) , the change in the value of the response ( y ) at steady state is
___(round off to 1 decimal place).
Ans. 1
Y  0.2(0.05s + 1)   10 
Sol. =  
Ysp  0.5s   ( s + 1)(2s + 1) 

 0.1s + 0.2   10 
  
Y  0.5s   ( s + 1)(2 s + 1) 
=
Ysp  0.1s + 0.2   10 
1+   
 0.5s   ( s + 1)(2 s + 1) 
(.1s + .2)10
=
(0.5s )( s + 1)(2 s + 1) + (0.1s + 0.2)1
1 (0.1s + 0.2)10
Y=
s 0.5s ( s + 1)(2 s + 1) + (0.1s + 0.2)10
1 (0.1s + 0.2)10  0.2 ×10
lim s  =
s →0
 s 0.5 s ( s + 1)(2 s + 1) + (0.1s + 0.2)10  0.2 ×10
Y =1
Hence, the correct answer is 1.
Q.24 The decomposition of acetaldehyde (x) to methane and carbon monoxide follow four step free radical
1
 k 2 3 3
mechanism. The overall rate of decomposition of X is, −rA = K 2  1  C X 2 = K overall Cx 2 . Where
 2K3 
K1 , K 2 , K 3 denotes the rate constant of the elementary steps with corresponding activation energy (in
KJ/mol) of 320,40 and 0 respectively. The temperature dependency of the rate constant is described by
Arrhenius equation. Cx denotes the concentration of a acetaldehyde. The rate constant for the overall
reaction is Koverall . The activation energy for the overall reaction (in KJ/mol) is ____
Ans. 200
Sol. E1 = 320
E2 = 40
E3 = 0
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
16 Chemical Engineering
1
 K1  3 2  −
E

−rA = k2   .Cx  K = K0e 
2 RT

 2 K3   
1
 E
− 1 2
 E
− 2   K 01 e RT 
3
−rA =  K 02 e RT  E3  .Cx 2

   2 K e − RT 
 03 
 1 320
 3
( )
−
 K 01 .e
2
40
 2
RT
−
−rA = K 02 e RT
 1 0  .Cx
 ( )
 2 K 2 .e − 2 RT
03


  40 − 2  
 320 

 K .K 2
1
  
 3
  e RT
−rA =    Cx 2
0 0
2 1
1 
.
 −0

(
  2 k 03 
2 
) e

 
 −
200
 32 3
−rA =  K 0overall .e  .Cx = K 0overall .Cx 2
RT

 
 E = 200
Hence, the correct answer is 200.
 2 4 6
Q.25 Sum of the Eigen values of the matrix  3 5 9  is ______. (round off to nearest integer)
 
12 1 7 
Ans. 14
Sol. Sum of Eigen value
= Trace of matrix = 2 + 5 + 7 = 14
Q.26 to Q.55 Carry two marks each
Q.26 In a box, there are 5 green balls and 10 blue balls. A person picks 6 balls randomly. The probability that
the person has picked 4 green balls and 2 blue balls is
240 420 42 45
(A) (B) (C) (D)
1001 1001 1001 1001
Ans. (D)
Sol. Given : In the box,
Number of Green balls = 5
Number of Blue balls = 10
Balls chosen at random = 6
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
17 Chemical Engineering
Probability of getting 4 Green Ball 2 Blue Ball
5
C4 × 10C2 45
= 15
=
C6 1001
Hence, the correct option is (D)
Q.27 The maximum value of the function
5
f ( x) = − x3 + 10 x 2 − 15 x + 16
3
in the interval (0.5, 3.5) is
(A) 16 (B) 48 (C) 0 (D) 8
Ans. (A)
−5 3
Sol. Given : f ( x) = x + 10 x 2 − 15 x + 16
3
differentiating w.r.t. x
f '( x) = −5 x 2 + 20 x − 15
Putting, f '( x) = 0 to find critical points.
−5 x 2 + 20 x − 15 = 0
x2 − 4 x + 3 = 0
x 2 − 3x − x + 3 = 0
( x − 3) ( x − 1) = 0
∴ x = 3 and x = 1
f "( x) = −10 x + 20
f "(3) = −10 and f "(1) = 10
∴ maxima lies at 3 as f "(3) < 0
Now checking the value of f ( x) at 3 and boundary value,
−5
f (0.5) = (0.5)3 + 10(0.5)2 − 15(0.5) + 16
3
f (0.5) = 10.792
Similarly, f (3) = 16
f (3.5) = 14.542
Hence, the correct option is (A).
Q.28 SO 2 from air is absorbed by pure water in a counter current packed column operating at constant pressure.
The compositions and the flow rates of the streams are shown in the figure.
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
18 Chemical Engineering
flow rate of pure water = 2kmols -1

SO 2 + air

mole fraction of SO 2 = 0.005

total flow of (SO 2 + air) = 0.05kmols

-1 SO 2 + water

mole fraction of SO 2 = 0.005

In addition, use the following data and assumptions

• Column operates under isothermal conditions
• At the operating temperature of the column, y * = 40 x where y * is the mole fraction of SO 2 at a mole
fraction of x
• Solution is dilute and the operating line is linear
• Negligible amount of water evaporates
The number of transfer units (NTU) for this column is
(A) 0.5 (B) 1.0 (C) 1.5 (D) 2.0
Ans. (D)
Sol.

Assume operating line are linear

Relation is given as
Y * = 40 x
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
19 Chemical Engineering
Solution is dilute and no water evaporation
L
A2 =
MG
2
A=
40 × .05
A =1
Y1 − Y2 .015 − .005
NTOG = = =2
Y2 − MX 2 .005 − 0
Hence, the correct options is (D).
Q.29 Two film theory applies for absorption of a solute from a gas mixture into a liquid solvent. The interfacial
mass transfer coefficient (in mol m −2s −1 ) for the gas side is 0.1 and for the liquid side is 3. The equilibrium
relationship is y * = 2 x , where x and y * are mole fractions of the solute in the liquid and gas phases,
respectively. The ratio of the mass transfer resistance in the liquid film to the overall resistance is
(A) 0.0161 (B) 0.0322 (C) 0.0625 (D) 0.0645
Ans. (C)
Sol. kx = 3
ky = 2
y = 0.1x
1 1 1 1 1
= + = +
K ox k x mk y 3 0.1× 2
1 1
 +
3 0.1× 2
1 1
 +
3 0.2
 0.34 + 5
1
= 5.34
kx
1 1
kx 1
= 3 = = 0.06242
1 5.34 3 × 5.34
K ox
Hence, the correct options is (C).
Q.30 Consider the equilibrium data for methanol-water system at 1 bar given in the figure below.
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
20 Chemical Engineering
1

0.9

mole fraction of methanol in liquid, x

(0.5,0.78)
0.8

0.7

0.6

0.5
(0.14,0.5)
0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1
mole fraction of methanol in liquid, x

A distillation column operating at 1.0 bar is required to produce 92 mol % methanol. The feed is a saturated
liquid. It is an equimolar mixture of methanol and water. The minimum reflux ratio is
(A) 0.33 (B) 0.50 (C) 0.54 (D) 1.17
Ans. (B)
Sol. Saturate liquid q = 1
1

0.9
(0.92,0.92)
mole fraction of methanol in liquid, x

(0.5,0.78)
0.8

0.7

0.6

0.5
(0.14,0.5)
0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1
mole fraction of methanol in liquid, x

Rm  0.92 − 0.78 
=
Rm +1  0.92 − 0.5 
Rm = 0.5
Hence, the correct options is (B).
Q.31 Consider the gas phase reaction N 2O4  2NO2 occurring in an isothermal and isobaric reactor
maintained at 298 K and 1.0 bar. The standard Gibbs energy change of the reaction at 298 K is
0
ΔG298 = 5253 J mol −1 . The standard states are those of pure ideal gases at 1.0 bar. The equilibrium mixture
in the reactor behaves as in the ideal gas. The value of the universal gas constant is 8.314 J mol−1K −1 . If
one mole of pure N 2O4 is initially charged to the reactor, the fraction of N 2O4 that decomposes into NO2
at equilibrium is
(A) 0 (B) 0.17 (C) 0.38 (D) 1
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
21 Chemical Engineering
Ans. (B)
Sol. ⎯⎯
→ 2 NO2
N 2O4 ←⎯
⎯
As you know that
ΔG 0 = − RT ln k
5253 = −8.314 × 298ln k
k = 0.12
k = k y P Σγi

y NO2
ky =
y N2O4

 2ε 
y NO2 =  
 (1 + ε) 
1− ε
yN 2O4 =
1+ ε
2
 2ε 
 
1+ ε 
k= 
 (1 − ε) 
 
 1+ ε 
(2ε) 2
0.12 =
(1 − ε 2 )
ε = 0.17
Hence, the correct option is (B).
Q.32 A tank initially contains a gas mixture with 21 mol % oxygen and 79 mol % nitrogen. Pure nitrogen enters
the tank, and a gas mixture of nitrogen and oxygen exits the tank. The molar flow rate of both the inlet
and exit streams is 8 mol s−1 .
In addition, use the following data and assumptions
• Assume the tank contents to be well mixed
• Assume ideal gas behavior
• The temperature and pressure inside the tank are held constant
• Molar density of the gas mixture in the tank is constant at 40 mol m−3
If the volume of the tank is 20 m3 , then the time (in seconds) required for oxygen content in the tank to
decrease to 1 mol % is
(A) 100.45 (B) 30.45 (C) 3.445 (D) 10
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
22 Chemical Engineering
Ans. (B)
Sol. O2 → from general mole balance equation
Molar rate = molar rate – molar rate
of O2 accumulation of O2 in of O2 out
d (ρ.Vx )
= f1 × x1 − f 2 × x2
dt
ρ = 40 mol/m3 , V = 20 m3
Where f1 = inlet flow rate
f 2 = Outlet flow rate
x = Mole fraction of O2
dx
ρV . = f1 × O − f 2 x
dt
dx
40 mol/m 3 × 20 m 3 = −8 mol/ sec x
dt
dx x
 =
dt 100
xdx t dt
  x0 x
=
0 100

 x  −t
ln   =
 x0  100
 0.01  −t
 ln  =
 0.21  100
 t = 30.45 sec
Hence, the correct option is (B).
Q.33 Consider steady, laminar, fully developed flow of an incompressible Newtonian fluid through two
horizontal straight pipes, I and II, of circular cross section. The volumetric flow rates in both the pipes are
the same. The diameter of pipe II is twice the diameter of pipe I, i.e., d II = 2d1 . The ratio of the shear
stress at the wall of pipe I to the shear stress at the wall of pipe II is
(A) 0.5 (B) 2 (C) 4 (D) 8
Ans. (D)
Sol. We know that
 ∂p  R  ∂p  D
τ =  − . =  − .
 ∂x  2  ∂x  4
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
23 Chemical Engineering
Laminar flow
32μuL
∂p = = For const Q
D2
32μQL 32μQL
∂p = =
A.DL π
× D4
4
1
∂p ∝ 4
D
So, τ ∝ D4 × D
1
τ∝
D3
3
τ1  D2  3
=  = (2) = 8
τ2  D1 
τ1
=8
τ2
Hence, the correct option is (D).
Q.34 Equilibrium data for a binary mixture of E and F at two different pressures is shown in the figure.

It is desired to process a feed containing 80 mol % E and 20 mol % F, and obtain a product with a purity
of 99.5 mol % E. A sequence of two distillation columns, one operating at pressure P1 and another at P2,
is employed for this operation, as shown below.
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
24 Chemical Engineering
Mole fraction of E in the distillate obtained from column 1 is 0.9. If the column pressures P1 and P2 are in
kPa, which one of the following is correct?
(A) P1 = 100, P2 = 20, and high purity E is recovered from the top of column 2
(B) P1 = 100, P2 = 20, and high purity E is recovered from the bottom of column 2
(C) P1 = 20, P2 = 100, and high purity E is recovered from the top of column 2
(D) P1 = 20, P2 = 100, and high purity E is recovered from the bottom of column 2
Ans. (D)
Sol. From the figure we can observe that relative volatility is less than 1 so more volatile component will come
out from the bottom of the column...
Hence D option will be correct
Q.35 A hollow cylinder of equal length and inner diameter (i.e., L = D ) is sealed at both ends with flat plate, as
shown in the figure. Its inner surfaces A1 A2 and A3 radiate energy.
D

A1

A2

A3

Fi j denotes the fraction of radiation energy leaving the surface Ai which reaches the surface A j . It is
also known that F13 = 3 − 2 2 . Which one of the following is correct?

2 −1 2 −1 2 −1
(A) F21 = 2 − 1 (B) F21 = (C) F21 = (D) F21 =
2 4 8
Ans. (B)
Sol.
D
A1

A2
L

A3
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
25 Chemical Engineering
Given, F13 = 3 − 2 2 & L = D
F11 + F12 + F13 = 1
0 + F12 + 3 − 2 2 = 1
F12 = 2 2 − 2
From Reciprocity theorem
A1
A1 F12 = A2 F21  F21 = × F12
A2
πR 2
F21 =
2πRL
(
× 2 2 −2 )
πR 2
F21 = × (2 2 − 2)
2πR (2 R)
2 −1
F21 =
2
Hence, the correct option is (B).
Q.36 A student performs a flow experiment with Bingham plastic under fully developed laminar flow
conditions in a tube of radius 0.01 m with a pressure drop ( ΔP ) of 10 kPa over tube length ( L) of 1.0 m
. The velocity profile is flat for r < rc and parabolic for r ≥ rc , as shown in the figure.

r
x rC

Consider r and x as the radial and axial directions, and the shear stress is finite as r approaches zero. A
force balance results in the following equation
d (r τrx ) (−ΔP)
=r
dr L
Where τ rx is the shear stress. If rc is 0.001 m , then the magnitude of yield stress for this Bingham Plastic
(in Pa) is
(A) 1 (B) 5 (C) 8 (D) 12
Ans. (B)
d (−Δp)
Sol. ( rτrx ) =  r
dr L
2
 ∂p  r
r τrx =  −  + C
 L2
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
26 Chemical Engineering
 ∂P  r C
τrx =  −  +
 L 2 r
r = 0, τrx = 0, C = 0

 ∂p  r 3 0.001
τrx yield stress =  −  . = 10 ×10 × =5
 ∂l  2 2
Hence, the correct option is (B).
Q.37 A feed stream containing pure species L flows into a reactor, where L is partly converted to M as shown
in the figure.
Recycle Stream

Feed Stream Product Stream

Reactor
L L+M

The mass flow rate of the recycle stream is 20 % of that of the product steam. The overall conversion of
L (based on mass units) in the process is 30 % . Assuming steady state operation, the-pass conversion of
L (based on mass units) through the reactor is
(A) 34.2 % (B) 30 % (C) 26.3 % (D) 23.8 %
Ans. (C)
Sol.
Recycle Steam

L→M
Feed 1 2
Reactor
L 3 Product
L+ M
Given :
recycle stream is 20 % over all conversion of L = 30 % on over all loop single pass conversion -
Amount of L at point (1) − L at (2)
L at point (1)
Point (3) work at a splitter so composition are same
Recycle steam = 0.2 × F
0.7 unrecycled steam of L
R = 0.2 × 0.7 F = 0.14 F
At point (1)
F + R = Mixed feed
Mixed feed = F + 0.14 F = 1.14 F
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
27 Chemical Engineering
Product contain L = 0.7 F
So, point (2)
−b ± b 2 − 4ac
 0.7 F + 0.14 F = 0.84 F
2a
Single pass conversion
1.14 F − 0.8 F
=
1.14 F
= 0.2631 = 26.31 %
Hence, the correct option is (C).
Q.38 A U-tube manometer contains two manometric fluids of densities 1000 kg m −3 and 600 kg m −3 . When
both the limbs are open to atmosphere, the difference between the two levels is 10 cm at equilibrium, as
shown in the figure.
P Q

10 cm

The rest of the manometer is filled with air of negligible density. The acceleration due to gravity is
9.81 m s −2 and atmospheric pressure is 100 kPa . How much absolute pressure (in kPa) has to be applied
on the limb ‘P’ to raise the fluid in the limb ‘Q’ by another 20 cm ?
(A) 100.175 (B) 103.924 (C) 547.231 (D) 833.206
Ans. (A)
Sol. First find h
P1 = P2

Patm + δ1 gh = Patm + δ2 g (.1 + h)

1010 × h = 600 × 9.01(0.1 + h)
h = 0.149 m ≈ 15 cm
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
28 Chemical Engineering

From figure, h1 = 10 cm = 0.1 m

P1' = P2'

Pabs + δ1 gh1 = Patm + δ 2 g ( h1 + 0.2)

Pabs = 100.104 KPa
Hence, the correct option is (A).
Q.39 A pure gas obeys the equation of state given by
PV BP
= 1+
RT RT
Where P is the pressure, T is the absolute temperature, V is the molar volume of the gas, R is the universal
gas constant, and B is a parameter independent of T and P. The residual molar Gibbs energy, G R , of the
gas is given by the relation
P
GR dP
=  ( Z − 1)
RT 0 P
Where Z is the compressibility factor and the integral is evaluated at constant T. If the value of B is
1 × 10 −4 m 3 mol −1 , the residual molar enthalpy (in J mol −1 ) of the gas at 1000 kPa and 300 K is
(A) 100 (B) 300 (C) 2494 (D) 30000
Ans. (A)
B0 P
Sol. z = 1+
RT
B0 = 10−4
T = 300 k, P = 1000 KPa
GR P dP
=  ( z − 1)
RT 0 P
PV BP  PV 
Given = 1+ , z = 
RT RT  RT 
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
29 Chemical Engineering
G R BP
=
RT RT
 G R = BP
G R = 100
HR  ∂ (G R / RT )   ∂ ( BP / RT ) 
= −T   = −T  
RT  ∂T P  ∂T P

 BP 
= −T  − 2
 RT 
G R = H R = 100
Hence, the correct answer is 100.
Q.40 Consider one mole of an ideal gas in a closed system. It undergoes a change in state from L to N through
two different non- isothermal processes, as shown in the P-V diagram (where P is the pressure and V is
the molar volume of the gas). Process I is carried out in a single step, namely LN, whereas process II is
carried out in two steps, namely LM and MN. All the steps are reversible.
P
(in kPa)

200 N

100 M
L

V (in m3 mol-1 )
0.02 0.03
The net heat flowing into the system for process I is QI and that for process II is QII . The value of QI − QII
(in J) is
(A) 250 (B) 500 (C) 1000 (D) 1500
Ans. (B)
1 m3
Sol. Wnet = (0.03 − 0.02) ×100 → × kPa
2 mol
= 0.01× 50 = 0.5 KJ
Wnet = Qnet = For a cycle
QI − QII = 500J/mol
Hence, the correct option is (B).
Q.41 A fluid is heated from 400 C to 600 C in a countercurrent, double pipe heat exchanger. Hot fluid enters at
1000 C and exits at 700 C .The log mean temperature difference, i.e. LMTD (in 0 C ), is _______(round off
to 2 decimal places).
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
30 Chemical Engineering
Ans. 34.76
Sol.
600 C
0
100 C

0
70 C 700C
100 0C
0
60 C
0
40 C 400 C

LMTD =
(100 − 60 ) − ( 70 − 40 )
 100 − 60 
ln  
 70 − 40 
LMTD = 34.760 C
Q.42 Consider an infinitely long rectangular fin exposed to a surrounding fluid at a constant temperature
Ta = 270 C .

Ta length
infinite
ends to

T0 x dx
Fin ext
Base

The steady state one dimensional energy balance on an element of the fin of thickness dx at a distance
x from its base yields
d 2θ
= m 2θ
dx 2
Where θ = Ts − Ta ' Tx is the temperature of the find at the distance x from its base in 0 C . The value of m
is 0.04 cm −1 and the temperature at the base is T0 = 2270 C .The temperature (in 0 C ) at x = 25 cm is
_____(rounded off to 1 decimal place).
Ans. 100.57
Sol. Ta = 270 C, T0 = 2270 C, T ( x) x =0.25 = ?

d 2θ
= m2θ
dx 2
−1
Given → m = 0.04cm−1  m = 4 m
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
31 Chemical Engineering
d 2θ
2
− m2θ = 0
dx
θ ( x) T ( x ) − Ta
= = e − mx
θ0 T0 − Ta
T ( x) − 27
= e−4 x
227 − 27
T ( x) x=0.25 = 27 + 200 e−4(0.25)
T ( x) x=0.25 = 27 + 200 e−1
200
T ( x) x =0.25 = 27 +
e
T ( x) x =0.25 = 100.570 C
Q.43 Liquid water is pumped at a volumetric flow rate of 0.02 m3s −1 from Tank to Tank II, as shown in the
figure.
Tank II

5m

Tank I

Pump

Both the tanks are open to the atmosphere. The total frictional head loss for the pipe system is 1.0 m of
water.
In addition, use the following data and assumptions
• Density of water of 1000 kg m −3
• Acceleration due to gravity is 9.81 m s −2
• Efficiency of the pump if 100 %
• The liquid surfaces in the tanks have negligible velocities
The power supplied (in W) by the pump to lift the water is _____ (round off to 1 decimal place).
Ans. 1177.2
Sol. Appling benefice at point (1) and point (2)

hw = 1 + 5 = 6
P = Qδghw
P = 0 ⋅ 02 × 1000 × 9.81× 6 = 1177.2 W
Hence, the correct answer is 1177.2
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
32 Chemical Engineering
Q.44 An elementary liquid phase reversible reaction P → Q is carried out in an ideal continuous stirred tank
reactor (CSTR) operated at steady state. The rate of consumption of P, −rP (in mol liter liter −1minute−1 ),
is given by
− rP = C P − 0.5 CQ

Where C P and CQ are the concentrations (in mol liter −1 ) of P and Q, respectively. The feed contains only
the reactant P at a concentration of 1 mol liter −1 , and conversion of P at the exit of the CSTR is 75 % of
the equilibrium conversion. Assume that there is no volume change associated with the reaction, and the
temperature of the reaction, and the temperature of the reaction mixture is constant throughout the
operation. The space time (in minutes) of CSTR is ___ (round off to 1 decimal place).
Ans. 2
Sol. ( − rp ) = C p − 0.5CQ
C p0 = 1 mol/l
X p = 75 % of Xe (equilibrium conversion)
For MFR
C p0 X p
τ=
(− rp )
C p0 X p
τ=
C p − 0.5CQ
CP = CP0 (1 − X P )
CQ = CP0 X P
XP
τ=
(1 − X P ) − 0.5 X P
At equation ( − rp ) = 0

1 CQ
= e
0.5 CPe
CP0 X Pe
2=
CP0 (1 − X Pe )

2
X Pe =
3
Actual conversion
2
X P = 0.75 × = 0.5
3
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
33 Chemical Engineering
0.5
τ=
(1 − 0.5) − 0.5 × 0.5
0.5 0.50
τ= = = 2 min
0.5 − 0.25 0.25
Q.45 An aqueous suspension at 600 C is fed to the first effect of a double effect forward feed evaporator with
a mass flow rate of 1.25 kg s −1 . The sum of the rates of water evaporated from the first and second effects
is 1.0 kg s −1 . Temperatures of the exit streams from the first and the second effects are 1000 C and 60 0 C ,
respectively. Consider the specific heat of the aqueous suspension, and the latent heat of phase change for
water to be 4 kJ kg −1K −1 and 2200 kJ kg −1 , respectively, over this temperature range. The steam economy
(in kg per kg) is____(round off to 2 decimal places).
Ans. 1.7774
Sol.
V1 = x V2 = 1 − x
 = 1.25 kg/s
m
Feed = F

Steam
S

L2
L1
TF = 600 C, T1 = 1000 C, T2 = 600 C
λV = 2200 kJ/kg, C P = 4 kJ/kg
Given → V1 + V2 = 1kg/s
F = L1 + V1
1.25 = L1 + x  L1 = (1.25 − x) kg/s
Energy balance on Ist stage
FC p (T1 − TF ) + V1λV = S λ S
1.25(4 ×103 )(100 − 60) + x(2200 ×103 ) = S (2200 ×103 )
200000 + 2200000 x = 2200000 S
11x − 11 S + 1 = 0
11x = −1 + 11 S … (i)
Energy balance on II stage
L1CP (T2 − T1 ) + V2 λV = V1λ S
(1.25 − x)(4)(60 − 100) + (1 − x)(2200) = x (2200)
4240 x = 2000
x = 0.4716 kg/s
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
34 Chemical Engineering
On substituting this value in equation (i)
11(0.4716) = −1 + 11S
S = 0.5626 kgs
V 1kg/s
Economy of Evaporatar = =
S 0.5626 kg/s
Economy of = 1.7774
Q.46 A vertically held packed bed has a height of 1m , and a void fraction of 0.1, when there is not flow through
the bed. The incipient (miniumum) fluidization is set in by injection of a fluid of density 1kg m−3 . The
particle density ( ρ p ) of the solids is 3000 kg m −3 . Acceleration due to gravity is 9.81m s −2 . The pressure
drop (in Pa) across the height of the bed is ___(round off to nearest integer).
Ans. 26478.17
Sol. For minimum fluidization
ΔP
= (1 − ξ m ) ( δ p − δ ) g
L
Δp = (1 − .1)(3000 − 1) − .01× 1
Δp = 26478.17 Pa
Q.47 Two ideal cross- current stages operate to extract P from a feed containing P and Q, as shown below.

Pure solvent (S)

Feed ( P+Q ) Raffinate Raffinate

Stage 1 Stage 2

Extract Extract

The mass flow rates of P and Q to stage 1 are 1, 000 kg h −1 and 10, 000 kg h −1 , respectively. Pure solvent
(S) is injected at mas flow rates of 5, 000 kg h −1 and 15, 000 kg h −1 to stages 1 and 2, respectively. The
components Q and S are immiscible. The equilibrium relation is given by Y * = 1.5 X , where X is the mass
of P per unit mass of Q in the raffinate, and Y * is the mass of P per unit mass of S in the extract, which is
in equilibrium with the raffinate. The mass flow rate of P (in kg h −1 ) in the raffinate from state 2 is
____(round off to nearest integer).
Ans. 176
Sol.
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
35 Chemical Engineering

y = 1.5 x [On Solute free]

Let x amount left in the Raffinate remaining from stage – 1 then in the extract, it will be (1000 − x)
 1000 − x  x
  = 1.5
 5000  (10, 000)
2000 − 2 x = 1.5 x
3.5 x = 2000
2000
x=
3.5
x = 571.428
 571.428 − x  x
Similarly,   = 1.5
 15000  10, 000
1142.057 − 2 x = 4.5 x
1142.057 / 6.5 = x
Amount of solute x = 175.024
In Raffinate = 176
Hence, the correct answer is 176.
Q.48 Consider a vertically falling film of water over an impermeable wall. The film is in contact with a static
pool of non-reactive pure gas. The gas diffuses into the water film over the entire height of the falling
film. The height of the film is 1.0 m, and its thickness is 10−4 m . The velocity of eater, averaged over the
film thickness, is 0.01 m s −1 . The gas concentration (in kg m −3 ), averaged over the film thickness is
C Ay = C Ai (1 − e −30 y )
Where y is the vertical positon in meters measured from the top of the wall.
In addition, use the following data and assumptions
• The flow is fully developed
• The width of the film is much larger than the thickness of the film, and the dissolved gas concentration
is invariant over this width
• The solubility of the gas in water, CAi , is constant
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
36 Chemical Engineering
• Pure water enters at y = 0
• The evaporation of water is negligible
The mass transfer coefficient on the liquid side (in mm s −1 ), averaged over the entire height of the falling
film is ____(round off to 3 decimal places).
Ans. 0.03
Sol.
y=0

Film
Thickness
Wall δ y=L
w)
h(
idt
W

Thickness of film = 10− 4 m

V (Average velocity) = 0.01 m/s
Width of film = ’w’, height (L) = 1m
C Ay = C Ai (1 − e− 30 y )

Which means at y = 0, C Ay = 0

At y = L = 1m C Ay = C Ai (1 − e30 )
Convective rate of mass transfer of pure gas into water film = mass transfer rate at y = L – Mass transfer
rate at y = 0
K L (C Ai − C Ay ) A = wA y + dy − wA
y

Where, KL is mass transfer coefficient A is Area over the differential block and is given by (wdy). Clearly
for the gas, the available area of Cross section (wdy) Now, rate of mass transfer = Flux × Area
Talking about area of mass transfer then we can say over the entire thickness of film, mass transfer is
taking place which means area of mass transfer is (wδ).

K L (C Ai − C Ay )( wdy ) = N A ( y +dy −NA

y ) (wδ)
Now, flux can be defined as N A = CA (u A − 0) [Basic definition]

Hence, K L (C Ai − C Ay )( wdy ) = C A ( y + dy −C A
y ) v (wδ)
K L (C Ai − C Ay )dy = C A ( y + dy −C A
y )
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
37 Chemical Engineering
Can be written as dC A
dC A
K L dy = V δ
C Ai − C Ay
Integrating both sides,]
C A ( y =1)
K L ⋅ L = δV  − ln (C Ai − C A ( y ) 
0

δV  C Ai 
KL = ln  
L  C Ai − C A ( y = 1) 

given C A ( y ) = C Ai (1 − e−30 y )

C A (1) = C Ai (1 − e−30 )
C Ai − C A ( y = 1) = e−30 ⋅ C Ai

δV  C Ai 
Now KL = ln  
L  C Ai ⋅ e− 30 

δV
KL = ln e30
L
10−4 × 0.01
KL = × 30
1
K L = 3 × 10 −5 m/sec
 K L = 0.03 mm/sec
Hence, the correct answer is 0.03.
Q.49 An exothermic, aqueous phase, irreversible, first order reaction, Y → Z is carried out in an ideal
continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) operated adiabatically at steady state. Rate of consumption of Y
(in mol liter −1minute−1 ) is given by
6500
−
− rY = 109 e T
CY
Where CY is the concentration of Y (in mol liter −1 ), and T is the temperature of the reaction mixture (in
K) . Reactant Y is fed at 500 C . Its inlet concentration is 1.0 mol liter −1 ,and its volumetric flow rate is 1.0
liter minute−1 .
In addition, use the following data and assumptions
• Heat of the reaction = −42000 J mol−1
• Specific heat capacity of the reaction mixture = 4.2 g −1 K −1
• Density of the reaction mixture = 10000 g liter −1
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
38 Chemical Engineering
• Heat of the reaction, specific heat capacity and density of the reaction mixture do no vary with
temperature
• Shaft work is negligible
If the conversion of Y at the exit of the reactor is 90 %, the volume of the CSTR (in liter) is ____(round
off to 2 decimal places).
Ans. 2.8
−6500
Sol. −ry = 109 e T
cy
T0 = 323.15 K
Cy0 X y V
For MER T = =
( − ry ) V0
Energy balance
Energy inlet – Energy out = Energy due to reaction
v0ρ0C p (T1 − T0 ) − v0ρ0C p (T2 − T0 ) − v0C y0 x y ΔH i
= 1× 1000 × 4.2 (323.15 − 0) − 1× 1000
× 4.2 × (T2 − 0) = 1× 1× (−42000)
T2 = 332.15 K
−6500
−ry = 109 e T
cy
− ry = 3.1702 c y
V 1× 0.9
=
1 (3.1702) c y ⋅ (1 − x y0 )
V = 2.8 liter
Hence, the correct answer is 2.8
Q.50 The liquid phase irreversible reactions, P ⎯⎯
k1
→ Q and P ⎯⎯
k2
→ R , are carried out in an ideal continuous
stirred tank reactor (CSTR) operating isothermally at steady state. The space time of the CSTR is 1 minute.
Both the reactions are first order with respect to the reactant P, and k1 and k2 denote the rate constants of
the two reactions. At the exit of the reactor, the conversion of reactant P is 60 %, and the selectivity of Q
with respect to R is 50 %. The value of the first order rate constant k1 (in minute−1 ) is ____(correct up to
one decimal places).
Ans. 0.5
Sol.
K1 Q

P K2
R
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
39 Chemical Engineering
X P = 0.6
K1 = ?
For MFR

Concentration in the tank will be same as that of at outlet

S =S
rQ K1C p
S= = K 2 = 2 K1
rR K 2 C2
Cp X p Cp X p Cp X p Xp
τm = = τm = =
(− rp ) K1C p + K 2C p ( K1 + K 2 )C p ( K1 + K 2 )(1 − X p )
0.6
1=
( K1 + K 2 )(0.4)
3
K1 + K 2 =
2
3
3K1 =
2
K1 = 0.5 min
Q.51 A catalytic gas phase reaction P → Q is conducted in an isothermal packed bed reactor operated at steady
state. The reaction is irreversible and second order with respect to the reactant P. The feed is pure P with
a volumetric flow rate of 1.0 liter minute−1 and concentration of 2.0 mol liter −1 .
In addition, use the following assumptions
• The reactant the product are ideal gases
• There is no volume change associated with the reaction
• Ideal plug flow conditions prevail in the packed bed
When the mass of catalyst in the reactor is 4 g, the concentration of P measured at the exit is 0.4 mol liter −1
−1
. The second order rate constant (in liter 2 g catalyst mol−1 minute −1 ) is ____ (correct up to one decimal place).
Ans. 0.5
Sol. W = 48

{
C A0 = 2 mol/l FA0 = CA0 .v0 = 2mol/l ×1 l/min = 2 mol/min

C A = 0.4 mo/l
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
40 Chemical Engineering
C A = C A0  2 (1 − xn ) = 0.4

 1 − xA = 0.2  xA = 0.8
For PRR –
W X A dx
= A

FA0 0 − rA
0.8
4 0.8 dx 0.8 dx 1  xA 
= A
2
= A
2
=  
2 0 KC A 0 KC
A0 KC A20 1 − x A  0

1  0.8 0 
2= −
K (2) 1 − 0.8 1 − 0 
2 

1  0.8 
K=
2 × 4  0.2 
1
 K=
2
 K = 0.5
Q.52 Flow of water through an equal percentage valve is 900 liter h −1 at 30 % opening, and 1080 liter h −1 at 35
% opening. Assume that the pressure drop across the valve remains constant. The flow rate (in liter h −1 )
through the valve at 45 % opening is ______(round off to nearest integer).
Ans. 1555.09
Sol. f = R l −1 900 ⎯⎯
→ 30%
1080 ⎯⎯
→ 35%
1080
= R.35−.30
900
 1.2 = R.05
ln(1.2) = .05ln R
0.1023 = 0.05 ln R
ln R = 3.646
R = 38.32
f
= R.45−.3
900
f
 = R 0.15
900
f = 900 × (38.32)0.15
f = 1555.092 L/h
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
41 Chemical Engineering
Q.53 Consider the following closed loop system.
ysp 10 1 y
+ Gc = K c Gf = Gp =
- 0.1s + 1 (0.1s + 1) 2

Gc 'G f ' and G p are the transfer functions of the controller, the final control element and the process,
respectively. y and ysp are the response and its set point, respectively. For a gain margin of 1.6, the design
value of K C is _____(correct up to one decimal place).
Ans. 0.5
Sol. T .F A.R = Gopen = GC G f G p GM
10 1
= KC × ×
(0.1s + 1) (0.1s + 1) 2
10 Kc
T.F A.R =
(0.1s + 1)3
10 K C
A.R2 = 3
(0.1) 2 w2 + 1 2

φ = −100 = 3 tan −1 (0.1w)

w = 17.3
10 K C
A.R w = wco = 3
(0.1) 2 × (17.3) 2 + 1 2

10 KC
A.R =
7.97
1
GM = w = w0
AR
7.92
1.6 =
10 K C
7.97
KC =
10 ×1.6
K = 0.5
dy
Q.54 Given = y − 20 and y x =0 = 40, the value of y at x = 2 is _______ (round off to nearest integer).
dx
Ans. 168
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
42 Chemical Engineering
dy
Sol. Given : = y − 20
dx
Variable separable method :
dy
= dx
y − 20
ln y − 20 = x + C

ln 20 = C

∴ ln y − 20 = x + ln 20
ln( y − 20) = 2 + ln 20
( y − 20) = e(2+ ln 20)
y = e 2+ ln 20 + 20
y = 167.78
y ≈ 168
Q.55 Consider the following data set.
x 1 3 5 15 25
f ( x) 6 8 10 12 5

25 rd
1
Calculate the value of 
1
f ( x) dx by Simpson  
3
method _______.

Ans. 242
rd
1
Sol. Simpson   method
3
h
}
{( y0 + yn ) + 4 ( y1 + y3 + − − − − − + yn ) +2 ( y2 + y4 + − − − − + yn−2 )
b
a
f ( x)dx =
3
Where
(b − a) 25 5 25
h= {h represents equal interval b/w b and a} 1 f ( x)dx = 1 f ( x)dx + 5 f ( x)dx
n
5 −1
 h= =2
2
PAGE GATE 2020 [Forenoon Session]
43 Chemical Engineering
25 − 5
 h= = 10
2

h 2 2
{( y0 + yn ) + 4( y1 ) + 2(0)} = {6 + 10 + 4 × 8 + 2 × 0} = × 48 = 32
5
1
f ( x)dx =
3 3 3
h 10 10
{( y0 + yn ) + 4( y1 ) + 2(0)} = {10 + 5 + 4 ×12 + 2 × 0} = × 63 = 210
25
5
f ( x)dx =
3 3 3
∴ Adding this two integral :
25
1
f ( x)dx = 32 + 210 = 242

