Rankers Physics

Thermal Physics: Practice Problem & Solution

A scientist says that the efficiency of his heat engine which work at source temperature $127\text{ }^\circ\text{C}$ and sink temperature $27\text{ }^\circ\text{C}$ is $26\%$, then: (2001)
It is impossible
It is possible but less probable
It is quite probable
Data are incomplete

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Thermal Physics. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

Maximum Carnot efficiency $\eta_{\text{max}} = 1 - \frac{300}{400} = 25\%$. Since the claimed efficiency ($26\%$) exceeds the Carnot limit, it is impossible.

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