Question

Derive the expression for the efficiency of a Carnot cycle for an ideal gas. Hence,

obtain its value for a heat engine operating between fixed temperatures 600 K

and 300K.

Answer 1

Answer

If temperature of source is T and temperature of sink T' then efficiency is given

$\eta=\frac{w}{Q}\\=\frac{Q-Q'}{Q}\\=1-\frac{Q'}{Q}$

In form of temperature

$\eta=1-\frac{T'}{T}$

For given temperatures efficiency

$\eta=1-\frac{300}{600}\\=0.50$