In a nuclear power plant, heat is taken from the reactor core at 300^oC, work is done to drive an electric generator, and heat is rejected to the environment at 40^oC. What is the maximum possible thermal efficiency of this system?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The maximum possible thermal efficiency of a Carnot cycle is given by the formula (Th - Tc) / Th, where Th is the temperature of the hot reservoir and Tc is the temperature of the cold reservoir. In this case, Th = 300°C + 273.15 = 573.15 K and Tc = 40°C + 273.15 = 313.15 K. Therefore, the maximum possible thermal efficiency is (573.15 - 313.15) / 573.15 = 45%. Thus, the correct answer is C.

In a Nuclear Power Plant, Heat Is Taken from the Reactor