Thermodynamics- determining mechanical power

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a homework problem related to thermodynamics, specifically focusing on determining the mechanical power converted to thermal energy due to frictional effects in a water pumping scenario. Participants analyze calculations involving power, flow rate, and density of water.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant calculates the mechanical power converted to thermal energy as 13.24 W using an incorrect density for water.
  • Another participant points out the incorrect density value of water, suggesting it is much higher than 1 kg/m³.
  • A later reply proposes that with the correct density, the power lost to heat should be around 6.76 kW, but questions remain about the calculations leading to this figure.
  • Several participants express confusion regarding the calculations, particularly around the efficiency and the resulting power loss.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the density of water was incorrectly stated, but there is no consensus on the final power loss calculation, with multiple competing views on the correct approach and results.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not resolved the discrepancies in their calculations, particularly regarding the efficiency and the resulting power loss. There are also unresolved assumptions about the values used in the equations.

MacLaddy
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Homework Statement



Hello all,

I've worked through the problem below, but I feel my answer is incorrect. I would appreciate it if someone could check my work.

Water is pumped from a lower reservoir to a higher reservoir by a pump that provides 20kW of shaft power. The free surface of the upper reservoir is 45m higher than that of the lower reservoir. If the flow rate of water is measured to be 0.03 m^3/s, determine mechanical power that is converted to thermal energy during this process due to frictional effects.


Homework Equations



e_m = ke =(\frac{P}{\rho})(\frac{1}{2}\vec{V}^2)(gz)

\dot{E}=\dot{m}e_m

\dot{m}=\rho\dot{V}

\eta=\frac{energy-out}{energy-in}


The Attempt at a Solution



e_m = ke =(\frac{P}{\rho})(\frac{1}{2}\vec{V}^2)(gz)=gz=(9.81\frac{m}{s^2})(45m)=441.45\frac{m^2}{s^2}=441.45\frac{J}{kg}

\dot{m}=\rho\dot{V}=(1 \frac{kg}{m^3})(0.03\frac{m^3}{s})=0.03\frac{kg}{s}

\dot{E}=\dot{m}e_m=(0.03\frac{kg}{s})(441.45\frac{J}{kg})=13.24\frac{J}{s}=13.24W = 13.24*10^{-3}kW

\eta=\frac{13.24*10^{-3}kW}{20kW}=.66*10^{-3}=0.066%

20kW-20\eta= 19.99 kW


So 19.99 kW out of 20 are wasted to heat in this problem? doesn't seem correct.
 
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You have the density of water as 1 kg / m^3. This is some really, really light water.
 
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Likes   Reactions: baldbrain
Ha, how did I miss that? Thanks.

How's the rest of my method look?
 
You have the wrong value for the density of water. [edit: nevermind, Steam King beat me to it]
 
Going through it with the proper density, I come up with 6.76 kW lost to heat. Sound about right?
 
Last edited:
Hello! How did you get 6.76 kW? I am with you until you get the .066%. Even with the correct density of water that should just eliminate your 10^ -3.

upload_2018-1-17_14-43-52.png
= .662

20 kW- .662

This is where I am stuck! Please help. Thank you so much.
 

Attachments

  • upload_2018-1-17_14-43-52.png
    upload_2018-1-17_14-43-52.png
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AbbeyC172 said:
Hello! How did you get 6.76 kW? I am with you until you get the .066%. Even with the correct density of water that should just eliminate your 10^ -3.

View attachment 218603= .662

20 kW- .662

This is where I am stuck! Please help. Thank you so much.
20 kW- 13.24 kW = 6.76 kW
 
Chestermiller said:
20 kW- 13.24 kW = 6.76 kW
Thank you! I feel stupid for missing that.
 

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