Thermodynamic Cycles

Question 1

What is the Carnot cycle?

Answer 1

A theoretical cycle with maximum efficiency:

η = 1 - (Tc / Th)

Question 2

What are the four stages of the Rankine cycle?

Answer 2

Pump: Increases pressure.

Boiler: Adds heat to produce steam.

Turbine: Converts steam energy into work.

Condenser: Rejects heat.

Question 3

What is the Otto cycle?

Answer 3

A model for internal combustion engines:

η = 1 - (1 / r^(γ-1) )

Where
r : Compression ratio
γ = cp / cv

Question 4

What is the purpose of a Brayton cycle?

Answer 4

The Brayton cycle models gas turbine engines.

Question 5

What improvements can be made to the Rankine cycle?

Answer 5

Regeneration: Preheating feedwater using extracted steam.

Reheat: Expanding steam in two stages with reheating in between.

Question 6

What is intercooling in the Brayton cycle?

Answer 6

Reduces compressor work by cooling air between compression stages, improving net work output.