Final answer:
The maximum theoretical efficiency of a heat engine operating between a high temperature of 600K and a low temperature of 300K is calculated using the Carnot efficiency formula, resulting in an efficiency of 50%.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question is about thermodynamics, specifically the theoretical efficiency of a heat engine operating between two temperatures. When we talk about the maximum theoretical efficiency of a heat engine, we refer to the efficiency of a Carnot engine, which is a theoretical construct used to establish the upper limit of efficiency for any heat engine operating between two given temperatures.
To calculate the maximum theoretical efficiency (η) of our heat engine, we use the following relationship: η = 1 - (Tc/Th), where Tc is the absolute temperature of the cold reservoir and Th is the absolute temperature of the hot reservoir, both in Kelvin (K).
Given that our heat engine operates between a high temperature of about 600K and a low temperature of about 300K, we must first ensure the temperatures are in Kelvin. If already given in Kelvin, we simply apply the formula: η = 1 - (300K/600K) = 1 - 0.5 = 0.5 or 50%. Therefore, the maximum theoretical efficiency for this engine would be 50%.
It's important to note that this is an idealized scenario under the assumption that the engine is operating on a Carnot cycle, which is an ideal reversible cycle. Real-world engines often have efficiencies significantly lower due to practical considerations such as friction, heat losses, and other irreversibilities.