Chapter 3, Problem 3.10E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Whether the efficiency is best optimized by having as high a high-temperature reservoir as possible, or by having as low a low-temperature reservoir as possible is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The efficiency of an engine is in terms of temperature is shown.

$e=1-\frac{T_{\text{low}}}{T_{\text{high}}}$

Where,

• $e$ is the efficiency of the engine.
• $T_{\text{low}}$ is the temperature of the low-temperature reservoir.
• $T_{\text{high}}$ is the temperature of the high-temperature reservoir.

The smaller the ratio of the low-temperature reservoir to high-temperature reservoir, higher will be the efficiency of the engine. Thus, for the highly efficient engine the value of $T_{\text{high}}$ should be high and the value of $T_{\text{low}}$ should be lower.