Question

What is the maximum efficiency of an engine operating between 500 K and 300 K?

A) 60%
B) 50%
C) 30%
D) 40%
E) 20%

Answer 1

The maximum efficiency of an engine operating between 500 K and 300 K is calculated using the Carnot efficiency formula, resulting in 40%, which is option D.

Step-by-step explanation:

The maximum efficiency of a heat engine operating between two temperatures is given by the Carnot efficiency, which is calculated using the temperatures of the hot and cold reservoirs in Kelvin. The formula for Carnot efficiency (e) is e = 1 - (Tc/Th), where Tc is the temperature of the cold reservoir and Th is the temperature of the hot reservoir.

Given that the engine operates between 500 K (Th) and 300 K (Tc), the maximum efficiency is calculated as follows:

e = 1 - (Tc/Th)
e = 1 - (300 K / 500 K)
e = 1 - 0.6
e = 0.4 or 40%

Therefore, the maximum efficiency of an engine operating between 500 K and 300 K is 40%, corresponding to option D.