Thermodynamics and Steam Engine

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the heat discharged per second by a steam engine operating at half its theoretical maximum efficiency. The user attempts to derive the relationship between work done, heat input, and heat discharged using thermodynamic equations. They express the work done as a function of maximum efficiency and heat input, leading to a formula for heat discharged. The user seeks clarification on their calculations and hints at possibly needing to express maximum efficiency in terms of temperatures. The conversation highlights the complexities of applying thermodynamic principles to practical problems.
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Homework Statement


If a steam engine operates at half of its theoretical maximum efficiency (emax) and does work at a rate of W J/s, calculate how much heat is discharged per second.


Homework Equations


WMax = \epsilon_{Max}*Q_{H}
W = QH-QC


The Attempt at a Solution


W = \frac{1}{2}*\epsilon_{Max}*Q_{H}

\frac{2W}{\epsilon_{Max}} = Q_{H}

W = Q_{H} - Q_{C}

W = \frac{2W}{\epsilon_{Max}} - Q_{C}

\epsilon_{Max} *W = 2W - \epsilon_{Max} * Q_{C}

\epsilon_{Max} *W - 2W= - \epsilon_{Max} * Q_{C}

W(\epsilon_{Max} - 2) = - \epsilon_{Max} * Q_{C}

\frac{W(\epsilon_{Max} - 2)}{- \epsilon_{Max}} = Q_{C}

Answer = \frac{2W (1-\frac{\epsilon_{Max}}{2})}{ \epsilon_{Max}}

Where did i go wrong?
 
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What is the given answer?
 
Last edited:
Maybe they want you to express the maximum efficiency in terms of temperatures Tc and Th.

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