A Geothermal Generating Facility Operates at the Ideal Carnot Efficiency

question 4

Essay

A geothermal generating facility operates at the ideal Carnot efficiency and
utilizes a pressurized hot water resource at 240°C.
(a) Calculate the Carnot efficiency as a function of the temperature of the cold reservoir from 40°C to 90°C.
(b) The waste heat from electricity generation may be utilized for space heating, and the facility may, therefore, supply a community with both electricity and heat. This approach is referred to as cogeneration and is discussed in more detail in Chapter 17. Using the relative proportions (averaged over the year) for residential electricity and heat requirements as presented in Chapter 2, is there an approach to regulating the cold
reservoir temperature that would make the best use of the geothermal resources?

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Definitions:

Central Route

A pathway of persuasion based on the thoughtful and analytical consideration of arguments, leading to lasting attitude change.

Self-Esteem

An individual’s overall subjective emotional evaluation of their own worth, which can affect their mental health and motivation.

Self-Monitoring

The degree to which individuals regulate their behavior to fit social cues and contexts, often adjusting their actions and expressions to appeal to others.

Narrative Transportation Theory

A theory suggesting that when people lose themselves in a story, their attitudes and intentions can be changed to reflect that story.