Chapter 11.10, Problem 1P

Why is the reversed Carnot cycle executed within the saturation dome not a realistic model for refrigeration cycles?

To determine

Why is the reversed Carnot cycle executed within the saturation dome not a realistic model for refrigeration cycles.

Explanation of Solution

A reversed Carnot cycle consists of an isentropic and isothermal process. Generally, the reversed Carnot cycle cannot be used an ideal model for refrigeration purpose since the isentropic process needed a maximum operational speed, but the isothermal process needed a very less operational speed.

The reversed Carnot cycle performed with the saturation dome for refrigeration cycles since the process of compression comprises the mixture of liquid-vapor compression and that needed a compressor to take care of two phases, and the process of expansion comprises the expansion of refrigerant having large moisture content.

Hence, the reversed Carnot cycle performed within the saturation dome.