Heat pump vs. refrigerator relationship For the same device viewed as a heat pump and as a refrigerator, the coefficients of performance satisfy:

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: (C.O.P.)_HP = (C.O.P.)_R + 1

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The same vapour-compression machine can be interpreted either as a refrigerator (cooling device) or as a heat pump (heating device). Their C.O.P.s are closely linked.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Q_L = cooling effect, Q_H = heating effect, W = compressor work.
  • (C.O.P.)_R = Q_L / W; (C.O.P.)_HP = Q_H / W.
  • First law for the cycle: Q_H = Q_L + W.


Concept / Approach:
Substitute the energy balance into the definitions to relate the performance ratios directly.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Start: Q_H = Q_L + W.Divide by W: Q_H/W = Q_L/W + 1.Therefore, (C.O.P.)_HP = (C.O.P.)_R + 1.



Verification / Alternative check:
Check a numerical example: if (C.O.P.)_R = 3, then (C.O.P.)_HP = 4. This matches the formula.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Options A and C add or subtract the wrong constant; D ignores the energy balance; E is not generally true.



Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting that a heat pump’s useful output includes both the cooling effect and the work input converted to heat at the hot side.



Final Answer:
(C.O.P.)_HP = (C.O.P.)_R + 1


More Questions from Heat Transfer, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion