Consider an operating line touches the equilibrium line, and then the fixed cost becomesa)Minimumb)Infinitec)No fixed costd)None of the mentionedCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Question

Answer

Operating Line and Equilibrium Line

The operating line is a straight line representing the relationship between the liquid and vapor compositions at different stages in a distillation column. The equilibrium line represents the relationship between the vapor and liquid compositions at equilibrium.

Fixed Cost

Fixed cost is a cost that does not change with an increase or decrease in the amount of goods or services produced. It includes costs like rent, salaries, and insurance.

Effect of Operating Line Touching Equilibrium Line on Fixed Cost

When the operating line touches the equilibrium line, it signifies that the distillation column is operating at maximum efficiency. At this point, the fixed cost becomes infinite. This is because any increase in production beyond this point would require additional equipment or modifications to the existing equipment, which would result in an increase in fixed costs.

In other words, the fixed cost becomes a limiting factor for further increases in production beyond the point where the operating line touches the equilibrium line. Therefore, any increase in production beyond this point would result in a significant increase in fixed costs, making it uneconomical.

Conclusion

In summary, when the operating line touches the equilibrium line in a distillation column, it signifies maximum efficiency. At this point, the fixed cost becomes infinite, making it uneconomical to increase production beyond this point.

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