Thermodynamics: Energy Conversion in Engines and Cycles

This lecture covers the principles of thermodynamics as they apply to energy conversion systems, focusing on various engine cycles. The instructor begins by outlining the first and second laws of thermodynamics, emphasizing their relevance to internal energy, work, and heat transfer. The discussion includes the Otto cycle, detailing the four strokes of a gasoline engine, and how these strokes relate to thermodynamic processes. The instructor explains the significance of adiabatic processes and the efficiency of engines, highlighting the differences between gasoline and diesel engines. The lecture also introduces the Rankine cycle and its applications in power generation and refrigeration. The instructor transitions to gas turbines and jet engines, explaining the Brayton cycle and its advantages over the Rankine cycle. The concept of exergy is introduced as a measure of the maximum useful work obtainable from a system, providing a framework for understanding energy efficiency in various thermodynamic processes. The lecture concludes with practical examples and calculations related to exergy and engine performance.