Finding exhaust temp in heat engine problem (entropy)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the exhaust temperature of an ideal heat engine using the Carnot Cycle principles. The work done by the engine is determined using the formula W = Q(in) - Q(out), yielding W = 460J - 285J = 175J. The efficiency is calculated as E = W/Q(in), resulting in E = 175J / 460J. To find the exhaust temperature, the relationship between entropy change and heat transfer is utilized, leading to the conclusion that the exhaust temperature can be derived from the Carnot efficiency formula involving the temperatures T(h) and T(c).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamic principles, specifically the Carnot Cycle.
  • Familiarity with heat transfer concepts and the first law of thermodynamics.
  • Knowledge of entropy and its calculation in thermodynamic processes.
  • Ability to manipulate equations involving heat (Q), work (W), and efficiency (E).
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Carnot efficiency formula and its application in ideal heat engines.
  • Learn how to calculate entropy change in thermodynamic systems.
  • Explore the relationship between heat input, work output, and exhaust temperature in heat engines.
  • Review examples of heat engine problems to solidify understanding of the concepts discussed.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying thermodynamics, engineers working with heat engines, and anyone interested in understanding the efficiency and performance of thermal systems.

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Homework Statement



The question is: An ideal heat engine takes in heat Q(in) at a temp T(h). It exhausts heat Q(out). So: (a) how much work is done by engine (b) what is efficiency of engine (c) what is exhaust temp of engine and (d) calculate the answers to above for heat input of 460J at a temp of 600K and heat output of 285J.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



So I have done so far:
(a) W = Qin - Qout
(b) E = W/Qin

but (c) is the bit that confuses me! so far I have got:
deltaS = deltaQ / T = (Qin - Qout) / T(h)

now after getting the above answer for deltaS, do I now rearrange it to get T = deltaS x deltaQ and plug that answer into this equation to get the final temp?

So to use the figures supplied would look like this:

deltaS = deltaQ / T

= (460 - 285)J / 600K = 0.29 JK (not sure what the unit is here?)

now plug into:

T = deltaS x deltaQ

= 0.29 x 175J

= 51.04 (again not sure what unit?)

I'm a bit lost here - am I on the right track or waaaaaay off?

Thanks heaps.
 
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(b) You're correct here, but they might want the answer expressed in terms of the given parameters Q(in), T(h), and/or Q(out)

(c) An "ideal heat engine" generally means one that uses the Carnot Cycle. Your text-book should have a formula for the efficiency of a Carnot Cycle engine, in terms of the temperatures Th and Tc.

If you find that, you can compare it with the usual expression,

E = W / Qin

and from there figure out what the exhaust temperature is.
 

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