To calculate the thermal energy of hot air at 250°C with a flow rate of 11,000 m³/h, first determine the mass flow rate by multiplying the volumetric flow rate by the air's density, which varies with pressure and temperature. The specific internal energy, a function of temperature for ideal gases, is essential for this calculation. The temperature difference referenced is between the hot air and the surrounding atmosphere, but for exhaust calculations, the focus should be on the exhaust temperature itself. The formula for thermal energy involves the mass flow rate, specific energy, and temperature difference. This approach will yield the desired thermal energy calculation for the hot air.