PIRA 4F30.70 Heat Engine Cycles
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Photo of University of Texas at Austin's Demonstration:
Faculty Instructions:
Data collection with the lab computer is optional for this demonstration.
Begin by immersing the can in the cold bath.
Once it has reached equilibrium, the piston should still be about 2-3 cm from the bottom of the cylinder.
Now, place the mass on the piston and immediately immerse the can in the hot bath.
Observe the piston pushing the mass upward as the air expands.
Once it has reached equilibrium, remove the mass from the piston and move the can back into the cold bath.
Observe how the piston returns to its original position.
Concepts Conveyed:
This demo consists of a heat engine of air inside a cylinder which expands when immersed in hot water.
The expanding air pushes on a piston and does work by lifting a provided weight.
The cycle is completed by immersing the can in cold water, which returns the air pressure and volume to their initial states.
Demo Staff Instructions:
Ensure the mass hanger is attached with 35 g of mass. This acts as a counterweight for the piston.
Displace the piston 2-3 cm from the bottom of the cylinder.
Prepare a hot (~80 degrees C) and cold (lots of ice!!) bath.
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