ANS:C - >1

The desirable value of the absorption factor in an absorber is generally greater than 1. The absorption factor (𝛼α) is a measure of the efficiency of mass transfer in an absorber. It represents the ratio of the actual amount of solute absorbed to the amount of solute that would be absorbed if the liquid and gas phases were in equilibrium.

• If 𝛼=1α=1, it indicates that the liquid and gas phases are in equilibrium, and no additional mass transfer occurs beyond this point.
• If 𝛼>1α>1, it indicates that more solute is being absorbed than what would be absorbed at equilibrium. This suggests efficient mass transfer and a desirable operation of the absorber.
• If 𝛼<1α<1, it indicates that less solute is being absorbed than what would be absorbed at equilibrium. This suggests inefficient mass transfer and may require optimization of operating conditions.