CBE 140

Course Number: CBE 140

Course Name: Introduction to Chemical Process Analysis

Units: 4

Offered: FALL, SPRING

Requirement Satisfied: CORE

Concentration(s):

Past Professors: Radke, Iglesia, Bryan, Graves, Reimer

Summary: CBE 140 is an introduction to various topics within the discipline of chemical engineering.

Official Prerequisites: Chemistry 4B or Chemistry 1B with a grade of C- or better; and Physics 7B (may be taken concurrently)

“Legit” Prerequisites: Math 53; Math 54 (or some differential equations knowledge); Engineering 7; Physics 7A

Topics Covered: 1. Mass Balances 2. Reactor Design 3. Chemical Equilibrium 4. Phase Diagrams and Properties 5. Phase Equilibria 6. Energy Balances 7. Special Topics (Steam Tables, Scientific Writing, etc.)

Workload: Problem sets are fairly difficult and working in groups is highly encouraged. Problem sets are assigned weekly but 1.5 weeks are given for each problem set due to the length. There are two midterm examinations that are cumulative. All exams are open-note but this is not as helpful as it seems since exams are rushed. A large project is due at the end of the semester that includes an industrial design problem that is relevant to course material. The project is done in groups of three to four and scientific writing is necessary to do well.

When to take: Freshman Spring/Sophomore Fall/ As early as possible

"What’s next" Courses: CBE 141, CBE150A

Usefulness for research / internships: You get an understanding of ChemE topics but they are highly idealized. For professional purposes, you will most likely not be able to solve real world, in-depth engineering problems.

Added Comments or Tips: Lecture attendance is effectively mandatory since the book was not used as much in the course. In general, GSI discussions and office hours were more helpful in addressing concerns than instructor lectures or office hours. Additionally, proficiency in MATLAB is absolutely necessary for homework problems and general solutions to problems.