Physics

Problem

An engine operates between a hot reservoir at

500\,\text{K}

and a cold reservoir at

300\,\text{K}

. In one cycle it absorbs

4.0\times10^3\,\text{J}

of heat and performs

2.0\times10^3\,\text{J}

of work. (i) Calculate the actual efficiency of the engine. (ii) Determine the maximum possible efficiency for any engine working between these two temperatures. (iii) State whether the given engine is possible under the Second Law, giving a brief reason.

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