Question

The surface waters of tropical oceans are at a temperature of 30 ∘C while water at a depth of 1200 m is at 3 ∘C. It has been suggested these warm and cold waters could be the heat reservoirs for a heat engine, allowing us to do work or generate electricity from the thermal energy of the ocean.

What is the maximum efficiency possible of such a heat engine?

Answer 1

The maximum efficiency possible of such a heat engine is 8.9%.

Step-by-step explanation:

Given that,

High temperature = 30°C

Depth = 1200 m

low temperature = 3°C

We need to calculate the maximum efficiency

Using formula of efficiency

`e=1-(T_(l))/(T_(h))`

Where,
`T_(l)` = low temperature

`T_(h)` =High temperature

Put the value into the formula

`e=1-(3+273)/(30+273)`

`e=0.089`

The efficiency in percentage,

`e=0.089*100`

`e=8.9\%`

Hence, The maximum efficiency possible of such a heat engine is 8.9%.