unit operation

A unit operation is a basic step or process used in manufacturing, processing, or treatment to change or refine materials. Think of it as a building block in a larger system—examples include mixing, heating, filtering, or separating substances. Each unit operation has a specific purpose, like removing impurities or ensuring uniformity. These steps are combined in a sequence to produce a final product or achieve a desired outcome efficiently and consistently. Essentially, unit operations are the fundamental actions that transform raw materials into useful products in industries like chemicals, food, and textiles.