Problem 2
A reversible Carnot engine operates between large reservoirs at constant absolute temperatures . Each cycle absorbs heat from the hot reservoir and rejects heat of magnitude to the cold reservoir; there are no other energy transfers. (a) Relate the heats to reservoir temperatures. (b) Find useful work per cycle. (c) Find efficiency and consider the limit . Keep the sign convention consistent and use appropriate SI units throughout. Each part builds on intermediate results from the preceding part; apply a physical relation only where the stated model assumptions hold. Finally compare the answers with the initial conditions, expected trends, and an independent check when available.
problems.proof.stepOf
problems.proof.analysis
Apply the governing law for the stated model, using the sign convention in the problem. This provides the starting equation for the later parts.
problems.proof.pitfall. Reversibility fixes the reservoir entropy balance; do not choose rejected heat independently.