a carnot cycle is a theoretical ideal heat engine operating between two heat reservoirs at different temperatures which of the following statements is

HESI A2

HESI Exams Quizlet Physics

1. A Carnot cycle is a theoretical ideal heat engine operating between two heat reservoirs at different temperatures. Which of the following statements is NOT true about a Carnot cycle?

A. The efficiency of a Carnot cycle is solely dependent on the absolute temperatures of the hot and cold reservoirs.
B. It is a reversible cycle, meaning the process can be run in both directions with the same efficiency.
C. It operates isothermally at the hot and cold reservoir temperatures.
D. It is the most efficient heat engine operating between the same two reservoir temperatures.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The statement that is NOT true is C. Although part of the Carnot cycle operates isothermally, not the entire cycle operates isothermally. The Carnot cycle consists of both isothermal and adiabatic processes. Choice A is incorrect because the efficiency of a Carnot cycle is indeed solely dependent on the absolute temperatures of the hot and cold reservoirs. Choice B is correct as a Carnot cycle is reversible, allowing the process to be run in both directions with the same efficiency. Choice D is also true as the Carnot cycle is the most efficient heat engine operating between the same two reservoir temperatures. Therefore, the correct answer is C.

2. Why doesn’t a raindrop accelerate as it approaches the ground?

A. Gravity pulls it down at a constant rate.
B. Air resistance counteracts the gravitational force.
C. Its mass decreases, decreasing its speed.
D. Objects in motion decelerate over distance.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. As a raindrop falls, it experiences air resistance which counteracts the gravitational force pulling it down. This balancing of forces prevents the raindrop from accelerating further as it approaches the ground. Choice A is incorrect because while gravity is pulling the raindrop down, air resistance opposes this force. Choice C is incorrect as the mass of the raindrop remains constant during its fall. Choice D is incorrect because objects in motion may decelerate due to various factors, but in this case, the focus is on why the raindrop doesn't accelerate.

3. When a charged particle moves through a vacuum at a constant speed, it generates:

A. An electric field only
B. A magnetic field only
C. Both an electric and magnetic field
D. Neither an electric nor magnetic field

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A moving charged particle generates both an electric field and a magnetic field. The electric field is due to the charge itself, and the magnetic field is produced by the motion of the charge. Choice A is incorrect because a moving charged particle also generates a magnetic field. Choice B is incorrect because a moving charged particle generates both electric and magnetic fields. Choice D is incorrect as a moving charged particle generates fields due to its charge and motion.

4. A rock has a volume of 6 cm3 and a mass of 24 g. What is its density?

A. 4 g/cm3
B. 4 cm3/g
C. 144 g/cm3
D. 144 cm3/g

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Density is calculated by dividing the mass of an object by its volume. In this case, the mass of the rock is 24 g and its volume is 6 cm3. By dividing 24 g by 6 cm3, we find that the density of the rock is 4 g/cm3. Choice A is the correct answer because density is expressed in units of mass per unit volume (g/cm3). Choice B is incorrect as it represents the reciprocal of density. Choices C and D are significantly higher values and do not match the calculated density of the rock.

5. During adiabatic compression of a gas, what happens to its temperature?

A. Remains constant
B. Decreases
C. Increases
D. Becomes unpredictable without additional information

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During adiabatic compression, the gas's temperature increases. This is because no heat is exchanged with the surroundings, and all the work done on the gas results in an increase in internal energy. Choice A is incorrect because the temperature does not remain constant during adiabatic compression. Choice B is incorrect as the temperature does not decrease. Choice D is incorrect as the behavior of the gas's temperature during adiabatic compression is predictable based on the principles of thermodynamics.