Thermodynamics: entropy and engines

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on a heat engine operating between a heat source at 400 K and a heat sink at 300 K, with 1000 J of heat supplied and 700 J exhausted per cycle. The engine performs 300 J of work, calculated using the equation Q_H = Q_L + W. The change in entropy for the heat source is approximately 2.5 J/K, while for the heat sink, it is about 2.33 J/K. The engine does not violate the second law of thermodynamics, as it loses heat to perform work. The calculations and significant figures are confirmed to be correct.
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Entropy and Engines

Homework Statement


A heat engine has the following diagram associated with it. There is a heat source which supplies 1000 J of heat energy during one cycle and remains at a constant temperature of 400 K. A heat sink exhausts 700 J of heat during a cycle at a constant temperature of 300 K. Both are reversible processes. During one cycle the engine itself doesn't change its entropy.

A) How much work can this engine do in one cycle?
B) Calculate change of entropy of heat source through one cycle?
C) Calculate change of entropy of heat sink through one cycle of engine?
D) Does this engine violate second laws of thermodynamics?

Homework Equations



Q_{H} = Q_{L} + W
\DeltaS = Q/T

The Attempt at a Solution



I just need someone to check my work. Thanks!

A) 1000 = 700 + W
W = 300 J

B) 1000 J/ 400 k = 3 J/K (well, 2.5, but with one sigfig...)

C) 700 J/ 300 K = 2 J/K (again, 2 and 1/3, but round down...)

D) No, because heat is lost in order to do work.
 
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Anyone? Please? It's a simple problem...
 
And are the sigfigs right?

sorry...*blush*
 
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