The efficiency of a heat engine
A)can never exceed the Carnot efficiency.
B)can be improved by lowering the temperature of the cool reservoir.
C)can be improved by raising the temperature of the hot reservoir.
D)all of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The efficiency of a heat engine is limited by the Carnot efficiency, which is given by the ratio of the temperature difference between the hot and cold reservoirs to the temperature of the hot reservoir. Therefore, choice A is correct. The efficiency of a heat engine can be improved by either lowering the temperature of the cold reservoir or raising the temperature of the hot reservoir, or both. Therefore, choices B and C are also correct. As a result, choice D is the best choice as it includes all three options.

The Efficiency of a Heat Engine