What Is the Maximum Theoretical Efficiency Possible for a Heat

question 19

Multiple Choice

What is the maximum theoretical efficiency possible for a heat engine operating between a reservoir in which ice and water coexist,and a reservoir in which water and steam coexist? The pressure is constant at 1.0 atmosphere for both reservoirs.

• A) 27%
• B) 45%
• C) 73%
• D) 17%

---

Definitions:

Signal Detection Theory

A theory predicting how and when we detect the presence of a faint stimulus (signal) amid background stimulation (noise). Assumes there is no single absolute threshold and that detection depends partly on a person’s experience, expectations, motivation, and alertness.

Horror Movie

A film genre designed to frighten, scare, or disgust its viewers by leveraging suspense, fear, and shock.

Faint Stimulus

A stimulus that is barely detectable or at the threshold of conscious perception.

Signal Detection Theory

A means to quantify the ability to discern between information-bearing patterns and random patterns that distract from the information.