Solving Adiabatic Process in Diesel Engine: Final Temp of Air-Fuel Mixture

In summary, in an adiabatic process where a diesel engine piston compresses air-fuel mixture from an initial volume of 630 cm^3 to a final volume of 30cm^3, the final temperature can be determined using the formula T(final) = T(initial)*(V(initial)/V(final))^y-1, with y representing the ratio of specific heats (1.4 for an ideal gas). The result is a final temperature of 1075.28 K or 802.13 degrees C. This result is significant as it shows a significant increase in temperature due to the compression process, which can have implications for engine performance and efficiency.
  • #1
menco
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Homework Statement


In a diesel engine, the piston compresses the air-fuel mixture from an initial volume of 630 cm^3 to a final volume of 30cm^3. If the initial temperature of the air-fuel mixture is 45 degrees C and the process is occurring adiabatically, determine the final temperature. Comment on the significance of the result.


Homework Equations


V(initial) = 6.3x10^-4 m^3
V(final = 3.0x10^-5 m^3
T(initial) = 318.15 K
T(final) = ?
y = 1.4

T(final) = T(initial)*(V(initial)/V(final))^y-1

The Attempt at a Solution



T(final) = 318.15(6.3x10^-4/3.0x10^-5)^0.4
T(final) = 1075.28 K or 802.13 degrees C


Is that on the right track? I found the equation online but I am a little confused how the equation is actually formed from T(f) = P(f)*V(f) / nR which I have in my textbook.
 
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  • #2
During an adiabatic process, no heat exchange occurs, so the change of internal energy is do to the work alone: dU=-PdV. PV=nRT is valid but the temperature and pressure changes during the process: [itex]P=nRT/V[/itex]. For an ideal gas, the internal energy is [itex]U=nC_vT[/itex], [itex]dU=nC_vdT[/itex], so [itex]nC_vdT=-(nRT/V) dV[/itex]. n cancels. Collect the like terms and integrate

[tex]\int{\frac{dT}{T}}=\int{-\frac{R}{C_v}\frac{dV}{V}}[/tex]

[tex] \ln(T)=-\frac{R}{C_v} \ln(V) +const[/tex].

R/Cv can be written in terms of γ=Cp/Cv: [itex]\frac{R}{C_v}=\gamma -1[/itex].

You can rewrite the equation as [tex] \ln(TV^{\gamma-1})=const [/tex],

that is [tex]TV^{\gamma-1}=const[/tex] .

ehild
 

1. What is an adiabatic process in a diesel engine?

An adiabatic process is a thermodynamic process in which there is no heat exchange between the system and its surroundings. In a diesel engine, this means that there is no heat transfer between the air-fuel mixture and the engine's surroundings, allowing for more efficient combustion.

2. Why is it important to solve for the final temperature of the air-fuel mixture in a diesel engine?

The final temperature of the air-fuel mixture is an important factor in determining the efficiency and performance of a diesel engine. It affects the combustion process and the amount of power that can be produced by the engine.

3. How is the final temperature of the air-fuel mixture calculated in a diesel engine?

The final temperature of the air-fuel mixture can be calculated using the adiabatic process equation: T2 = T1 * (V1/V2)^(gamma-1), where T1 represents the initial temperature, T2 represents the final temperature, V1 represents the initial volume, V2 represents the final volume, and gamma is the ratio of specific heats for the air-fuel mixture.

4. What factors can affect the final temperature of the air-fuel mixture in a diesel engine?

The final temperature of the air-fuel mixture can be affected by several factors, including the initial temperature and pressure of the mixture, the compression ratio of the engine, and the composition of the air-fuel mixture.

5. How can the final temperature of the air-fuel mixture be optimized in a diesel engine?

The final temperature of the air-fuel mixture can be optimized by adjusting the compression ratio of the engine, using a higher quality fuel, and properly maintaining and tuning the engine. It is also important to consider the operating conditions of the engine, such as load and speed, when trying to optimize the final temperature.

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