mass balance
The concept of 'mass balance' ensures that the mass entering a system equals the mass exiting, accounting for any changes within the system.
Definition
C1General Science and Engineering
(technical, academic)A principle stating that mass in a closed system remains constant over time, with the mass entering equal to the mass exiting plus any accumulation.
Example
- Engineers use mass balance calculations to design efficient industrial processes.
- Mass balance principles are crucial in ensuring accurate resource management.
C1Environmental Science
(technical, academic)An accounting of the input, output, and storage of substances within a defined environmental system.
Example
- Mass balance studies help in understanding the nutrient cycles in ecosystems.
- Environmental scientists use mass balance to track pollutant dispersion.
C1Glaciology
(technical, academic)The difference between the amount of ice a glacier gains and loses over a specific period.
Example
- The mass balance of glaciers is a key indicator of climate change.
- Researchers measure glacier mass balance to predict sea-level rise.
C1Chemical Engineering
(technical, academic)A calculation ensuring that the mass of all reactants equals the mass of all products in a chemical process.
Example
- Chemical engineers rely on mass balance to design reactors.
- Mass balance calculations are fundamental in process optimization.
C1Hydrology
(technical, academic)The assessment of the inflow, outflow, and storage changes of water within a hydrological system.
Example
- Hydrologists use mass balance to manage water resources in river basins.
- Mass balance helps in predicting the effects of droughts and floods.