In the engine efficiency formula, temperatures must be measured in which unit?

Study for the Praxis Physics Exam with interactive questions and detailed explanations to enhance your understanding of physics concepts. Prepare for your exam efficiently!

Multiple Choice

In the engine efficiency formula, temperatures must be measured in which unit?

Explanation:
In this type of efficiency formula, temperatures are used as an absolute measure of thermal energy. The ratio of temperatures only makes physical sense when zero corresponds to no thermal energy, which is absolute zero. Celsius and Fahrenheit have arbitrary zero points, so using them would distort the ratio like η = 1 − Tc/Th. Rankine is an absolute scale too, but the standard practice in physics and engineering is to use Kelvin. Therefore, temperatures must be measured in Kelvin to apply the formula correctly.

In this type of efficiency formula, temperatures are used as an absolute measure of thermal energy. The ratio of temperatures only makes physical sense when zero corresponds to no thermal energy, which is absolute zero. Celsius and Fahrenheit have arbitrary zero points, so using them would distort the ratio like η = 1 − Tc/Th. Rankine is an absolute scale too, but the standard practice in physics and engineering is to use Kelvin. Therefore, temperatures must be measured in Kelvin to apply the formula correctly.

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