QuestionJuly 20, 2025

Topic: Second Law of Thermodynamics More efficient gasoline engines could be built if they could withstand lower temperatures. greater rotational rates. none of the available options higher temperatures.

Topic: Second Law of Thermodynamics More efficient gasoline engines could be built if they could withstand lower temperatures. greater rotational rates. none of the available options higher temperatures.
Topic: Second Law of Thermodynamics
More efficient gasoline engines could be built if they could withstand
lower temperatures.
greater rotational rates.
none of the available options
higher temperatures.

Solution
4.6(160 votes)

Answer

higher temperatures. Explanation 1. Identify the Key Concept The efficiency of a heat engine is determined by the temperature difference between the hot and cold reservoirs. According to the **Carnot efficiency formula**: \eta = 1 - \frac{T_c}{T_h}, where T_c is the cold reservoir temperature and T_h is the hot reservoir temperature. 2. Analyze Temperature Impact Higher temperatures (T_h) increase the efficiency because they increase the temperature difference, maximizing the work output according to the Carnot principle.

Explanation

1. Identify the Key Concept<br /> The efficiency of a heat engine is determined by the temperature difference between the hot and cold reservoirs. According to the **Carnot efficiency formula**: $\eta = 1 - \frac{T_c}{T_h}$, where $T_c$ is the cold reservoir temperature and $T_h$ is the hot reservoir temperature.<br /><br />2. Analyze Temperature Impact<br /> Higher temperatures ($T_h$) increase the efficiency because they increase the temperature difference, maximizing the work output according to the Carnot principle.
Click to rate:

Similar Questions