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Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer Flashcards

6 cards from real ME or MEng Master of Engineering practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer flashcards as text
  1. Which thermodynamic cycle is the theoretical standard for spark-ignition gasoline engines?

    Answer: Otto cycle

    The Otto cycle models the idealized operation of a spark-ignition internal combustion engine with constant-volume heat addition.

  2. What does the Clausius inequality state about a thermodynamic cycle?

    Answer: The cyclic integral of dQ/T is less than or equal to zero

    The Clausius inequality states that the cyclic integral of δQ/T ≤ 0, with equality for reversible processes, forming the basis of the second law.

  3. In a heat exchanger, the LMTD method stands for:

    Answer: Logarithmic Mean Temperature Difference

    LMTD (Logarithmic Mean Temperature Difference) is used to determine the driving force for heat transfer in a heat exchanger.

  4. The thermal efficiency of a Carnot heat engine operating between 600 K (hot) and 300 K (cold) is:

    Answer: 50%

    Carnot efficiency = 1 − T_cold/T_hot = 1 − 300/600 = 0.50 or 50%.

  5. Fourier's Law of heat conduction relates heat flux to:

    Answer: The negative of the temperature gradient

    Fourier's Law states q = −k∇T, meaning heat flux is proportional to the negative temperature gradient.

  6. Which dimensionless number is used in convective heat transfer to relate inertial forces to viscous forces in a fluid?

    Answer: Reynolds number

    The Reynolds number (Re = ρVL/μ) compares inertial to viscous forces and determines laminar vs. turbulent flow regimes.