Facilitating Active Learning of the Concepts in Transport Phenomena: Experiment with a Subliming Solid

Authors

  • Vivek Utgikar Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844

Abstract

 

 An experiment based on the sublimation of a solid was introduced in the undergraduate Transport Phenomena course. The experiment required the students to devise their own apparatus and measurement techniques. The theoretical basis, assignment of the experiment, experimental results, and student/instructor observations are described in this paper. Student response indicated that this simple experiment was of immense value in enhancing student comprehension of the complex concepts of transport phenomena. The creativity and independence required of the students facilitated their involvement in the learning process. This experiment and the future modifications described in this paper will be of value to both the students and the instructors of Transport Phenomena.

Author Biography

Vivek Utgikar, Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844

Vivek P. Utgikar is a professor in the Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering and the interim

director of the nuclear engineering program at the University of Idaho (Moscow, Idaho). He received his

B. Chem. Eng. (Bachelor of Chemical Engineering) and M. Chem. Eng. (Master of Chemical Engineering)

degrees from the Mumbai University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Cincinnati, also in chemical

engineering. He is interested in enhancing teaching effectiveness through curricular enhancements,

engaging students in the learning process by stimulating their thought‐processes, and motivating them

to assume responsibilities. His teaching portfolio includes Freshman level chemical engineering

computations, advanced undergraduate transport and rate processes, and graduate kinetics and

thermodynamics courses. His research interests are in the areas of energy systems and storage,

advanced nuclear reactors and spent nuclear fuel recycle, bioremediation, and catalysis.

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Published

2015-11-04

Issue

Vol. 49 No. 4 (2015): Fall 2015

Section

Manuscripts