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A member of the U.S. Congress proposed a scheme to produce
Chapter 20, Problem 5DQ(choose chapter or problem)
A member of the U.S. Congress proposed a scheme to produce energy as follows. Water molecules (H2O) are to be broken apart to produce hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen is then burned (that is, combined with oxygen), releasing energy in the process. The only product of this combustion is water, so there is no pollution. In light of the second law of thermodynamics, what do you think of this energy-producing scheme?
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QUESTION:
A member of the U.S. Congress proposed a scheme to produce energy as follows. Water molecules (H2O) are to be broken apart to produce hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen is then burned (that is, combined with oxygen), releasing energy in the process. The only product of this combustion is water, so there is no pollution. In light of the second law of thermodynamics, what do you think of this energy-producing scheme?
ANSWER:Solution 5DQ Introduction We have to think in terms of total energy output from the whole process to see if it is possible to generate in the process. Solution According the to second law of thermodynamics, it is not possible to get work done from an engine if the engine can take heat from hot reservoir