Thermodynamic Efficiency and the maximum possible electric output

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The thermodynamic efficiency of a 2.5GWth nuclear power plant is calculated using the formula e = 1 – Tc/Th, where Tc is the low temperature and Th is the high temperature. In winter, with a low temperature of 268°K, the efficiency is 53%, while in summer, with a low temperature of 295°K, the efficiency drops to 48%. This indicates that the plant can produce a maximum electric output of 1.325GW in winter and 1.2GW in summer. The discussion emphasizes the impact of seasonal temperature variations on the plant's efficiency and potential electricity generation. Understanding these efficiencies is crucial for optimizing nuclear power output throughout the year.
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1. A 2.5GWth nuclear power plant operates at a high temperature of 570°K. In the winter the average low temperature at which it dumps waste heat is 268°K; in the summer it’s 295°K. Determine the thermodynamic efficiency of the plant in each season, and then derive from it the maximum possible electric power output.

2. e = 1 – Tc/Th

Tc = Low Temperature
Th = High Temperature


3. Winter = 1 – (268/570) = 0.53 = 53%
Summer = 1 – (295/570) = 0.48 = 48%

The maximum possible electric output = ?
 
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