Exam-style question
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Explain how a refrigerator can be considered a reversed heat engine, including the role of work input.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- A refrigerator is a reversed heat engine that requires work input to transfer heat from the cooler interior to the warmer exterior.
- The work done by the compressor allows the refrigerant to absorb heat from inside the fridge and release it outside, maintaining a lower temperature inside.
Explanation
Why this works
This answer is strong as it connects the concept of work input to the operation of a refrigerator as a reversed heat engine. It tests the understanding of energy transfer processes and the relationship between work and heat movement in thermodynamic systems.
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