Brownian Ratchet: Carnot Cycle Efficiency Explained

Thread starter rohitupreti
Start date Jun 25, 2014

AI Thread Summary

Feynman's description of the ratchet pawl system indicates that its efficiency matches that of the Carnot cycle, but the processes themselves are not identical. The Carnot cycle is a theoretical model for maximum efficiency in heat engines, while the ratchet pawl system operates under different principles. The key point is that while both systems can achieve the same efficiency, they do not function in the same manner. Understanding this distinction is crucial for grasping the implications of Feynman's work. The efficiency equivalence does not imply that the underlying processes are equivalent.

Jun 25, 2014

rohitupreti

In feynman's description for the ratchet pawl system he gets the efficiency for the system to be same as he efficiency in the carnot cycle. I am not able to understand or if its correct that the process could be visualized as carnot cycle. Pls explain.

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Jun 25, 2014

Simon Bridge

Science Advisor

Homework Helper

Welcome to PF;
it is not the same process as a carnot cycle - it just has the same efficiency.

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