Shown below are 4 figures that represent the heat flow in a heat engine. The thickness of the arrows represents the amount of heat flow. T_H is the high-temperature reservoir, T_C is the low-temperature reservoir, Q_H is heat to/from T_H, Q_C is heat to/from T_C, and W is work. Which figure best represents a real heat engine?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Figure B best represents a real heat engine as it shows the heat flow from the high-temperature reservoir to the low-temperature reservoir, resulting in work output. The other figures either show no work output or violate the second law of thermodynamics by showing heat flow from cold to hot without any external work input.

Shown Below Are 4 Figures That Represent the Heat Flow