Calculating Efficiency of a Heat Engine: Converting Celsius to Kelvin

In summary, to calculate the efficiency of a heat engine, we must first convert the temperature from Celsius to Kelvin. The formula for efficiency is eff = [1-(T cold/T hot)]*100. An example is given where 302°C is converted to 593K and 610°C is converted to 883K. The resulting efficiency is about 32.8%. However, this is for an ideal (reversible) heat engine and real engines will have lower efficiency. A mistake is pointed out where 302°C is incorrectly converted to 593K, when it should be 575K.
  • #1
cowgiljl
63
1
when i am calculating the eggiciency of a heat engine i have to convert the celicus to kelvis and used this formula

eff = 1-(T cold/T hot)*100

fro example 302C = 593K 610C = 883K

eff = 1-593/883 = about 32.8% efficient

right ?

thanks joe
 
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  • #2
Originally posted by cowgiljl
eff = 1-(T cold/T hot)*100
You mean: eff = [1-(T cold/T hot)]*100.

This is the efficiency of an ideal (reversible) heat engine; real engines will be less efficient.
...
eff = 1-593/883 = about 32.8% efficient
Right.
 
  • #3
Originally posted by cowgiljl
fro example 302C = 593K

Nope, 302+273=575.
 
  • #4
it was 320 not 302 but thanks
 
  • #5


Originally posted by Tom
Nope, 302+273=575.
Good catch, Tom. :smile:
 

Related to Calculating Efficiency of a Heat Engine: Converting Celsius to Kelvin

1. What is a heat engine?

A heat engine is a device that converts thermal energy into mechanical energy, typically in the form of work. It operates on the principles of thermodynamics and is used in many everyday applications, such as car engines and power plants.

2. How is the efficiency of a heat engine calculated?

The efficiency of a heat engine is calculated by dividing the work output by the heat input. This is known as the Carnot efficiency and is expressed as a percentage.

3. What factors affect the efficiency of a heat engine?

The efficiency of a heat engine is affected by several factors, including the temperature difference between the hot and cold reservoirs, the type of working fluid used, and the design and operation of the engine.

4. Why is the efficiency of a heat engine less than 100%?

The efficiency of a heat engine is limited by the second law of thermodynamics, which states that it is impossible to convert all of the heat energy into work. Some heat will always be lost to the surroundings, resulting in an efficiency less than 100%.

5. How can the efficiency of a heat engine be improved?

The efficiency of a heat engine can be improved by increasing the temperature difference between the hot and cold reservoirs, using a more efficient working fluid, and optimizing the design and operation of the engine. Additionally, waste heat can be recovered and reused in other processes to improve overall efficiency.

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