Question

The efficiency of a Carnot engine depends on:

• A. The temperature of the hot reservoir only
• B. The temperature of the cold reservoir only
• C. Both the temperatures of the hot and cold reservoirs
• D. The working substance used

Hint:

Remember, the efficiency of a Carnot engine is solely dependent on the temperatures of the hot and cold reservoirs, not the working substance.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The efficiency of a Carnot engine is determined by the temperatures of the hot and cold reservoirs. The formula for the efficiency \( \eta \) of a Carnot engine is: \[ \eta = 1 - \frac{T_C}{T_H} \] where:
\( T_H \) is the temperature of the hot reservoir,
\( T_C \) is the temperature of the cold reservoir,
Both \( T_H \) and \( T_C \) are in Kelvin.
The efficiency depends on both temperatures. If either temperature is increased or decreased, the efficiency will change accordingly. The temperature of the working substance does not directly affect the efficiency. Thus, the correct answer is (c) Both the temperatures of the hot and cold reservoirs.