If you feel that it really matters that much, then you can't use the 1D heat conduction equation. A 1D analysis of the heat conduction will not not be adequate. You will need to solve the 2D heat conduction equation within the walls of the frig.mrquestion123 said:Let's just say there is no uncertainty, because the values are given. If you take the in- or the outside surface area, it has a large impact on the outcome. Especially with thick walls. So my question is, in this formula, should the in- or the outside surface area be used?
Neither.mrquestion123 said:Let's just say there is no uncertainty, because the values are given. If you take the in- or the outside surface area, it has a large impact on the outcome. Especially with thick walls. So my question is, in this formula, should the in- or the outside surface area be used?
I stand corrected.Chestermiller said:Heat transfer problems in complicated geometries are routinely handled using finite element (numerical) analysis. Even with finite difference analysis, heat transfer in an isosceles trapezoidal object seems pretty simple if the trapazoid is mathmatically mapped onto a rectangle by transformation of the spatial independent variables.
Chet
If the heat flow in the corners is negligible, then you use the inside area.mrquestion123 said:Thank you all for your replies,
@MR chestermiller it seems pretty complicated to do.a 2d analysis.
@Russ waters, yes maybe i should just ask the questioner. The book writes K is transport through a flat wall with a surface area, which does not answer my question yet. The previous question is to calculate the interior volume (for heat loss opening the door) and the exterior size, which why I assume they mean the outside surface area should be used.
@OmCheeto, hmm they do not expect me to calculate the corners. This should be covered with the in- or outside surface area.
Thermodynamics is the branch of physics that deals with the relationships between heat, work, and energy. It studies how energy is transferred and transformed between different forms, such as heat, work, and internal energy.
Heat loss is the transfer of thermal energy from a warmer object to a cooler object. In the context of a fridge, heat loss refers to the transfer of heat from inside the fridge to its surroundings, causing the temperature inside the fridge to decrease.
A fridge prevents heat loss by using insulation, such as foam or fiberglass, to create a barrier between the inside and outside of the fridge. It also uses a refrigeration system, which removes heat from inside the fridge and transfers it to the outside.
Heat loss is important in a fridge because it allows the fridge to maintain a cold temperature inside. Without heat loss, the inside of the fridge would not cool down and food would spoil quickly.
Heat loss can be minimized in a fridge by ensuring that the door is closed tightly, avoiding frequent opening of the fridge, and keeping the fridge away from sources of heat, such as direct sunlight or other appliances. Regular maintenance of the fridge's insulation and refrigeration system can also help minimize heat loss.