Thermodynamics and Steam Engine

T_{C}}{T_{H}}In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of heat discharged per second in a steam engine operating at half of its theoretical maximum efficiency and doing work at a rate of W J/s. The solution involves manipulating equations to express the maximum efficiency in terms of temperatures Tc and Th.
  • #1
fallen186
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Homework Statement


If a steam engine operates at half of its theoretical maximum efficiency (emax) and does work at a rate of W J/s, calculate how much heat is discharged per second.


Homework Equations


WMax = [tex]\epsilon_{Max}*Q_{H}[/tex]
W = QH-QC


The Attempt at a Solution


[tex]W = \frac{1}{2}*\epsilon_{Max}*Q_{H}[/tex]

[tex]\frac{2W}{\epsilon_{Max}} = Q_{H}[/tex]

[tex]W = Q_{H} - Q_{C}[/tex]

[tex]W = \frac{2W}{\epsilon_{Max}} - Q_{C}[/tex]

[tex]\epsilon_{Max} *W = 2W - \epsilon_{Max} * Q_{C}[/tex]

[tex]\epsilon_{Max} *W - 2W= - \epsilon_{Max} * Q_{C}[/tex]

[tex]W(\epsilon_{Max} - 2) = - \epsilon_{Max} * Q_{C}[/tex]

[tex]\frac{W(\epsilon_{Max} - 2)}{- \epsilon_{Max}} = Q_{C}[/tex]

[tex]Answer = \frac{2W (1-\frac{\epsilon_{Max}}{2})}{ \epsilon_{Max}}[/tex]

Where did i go wrong?
 
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  • #2
What is the given answer?
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Maybe they want you to express the maximum efficiency in terms of temperatures Tc and Th.

AM
 

1. What is thermodynamics and how does it relate to steam engines?

Thermodynamics is the branch of science that deals with the relationship between heat and other forms of energy. Steam engines use thermodynamic principles to convert heat energy into mechanical work, making them efficient and useful for various applications.

2. How do steam engines work?

Steam engines work by using the expansion of steam to create mechanical work. The steam is produced by heating water in a boiler, and then directed into a cylinder where it pushes a piston, which in turn drives a crankshaft to produce rotary motion.

3. What is the Carnot cycle and how does it apply to steam engines?

The Carnot cycle is a theoretical cycle that describes the most efficient way to convert heat energy into work. It applies to steam engines as they use the principles of this cycle to maximize their efficiency by maintaining a constant temperature difference between the hot and cold reservoirs.

4. What are the advantages of using steam engines?

Steam engines have several advantages, including their ability to generate high levels of power, their reliability, and their versatility in terms of fuel sources. They also have a long lifespan and can be used for various applications, such as transportation, power generation, and industrial processes.

5. Are steam engines still used today?

While steam engines are not as commonly used as they once were, they are still used in certain industries and applications. For example, they are used in some power plants and in the marine industry for propulsion. They are also popular in historical and heritage railways, as well as in steam-powered vehicles and machinery.

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