Compressor fundamentals: select the correct statement among the following. Evaluate each statement about definitions and work in air compression, and choose the only correct one.
Mechanical Engineering
Compressors, Gas Dynamics and Gas Turbines
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AThe ratio of discharge pressure to inlet pressure is called compressor efficiency.
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BThe compression ratio for a compressor is always greater than unity.
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CCompressor capacity is the ratio of workdone per cycle to the stroke volume.
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DDuring isothermal compression, the workdone in a compressor is maximum.
Answer
Correct Answer: The compression ratio for a compressor is always greater than unity.
Explanation
Concept/ApproachCheck each statement against standard definitions and thermodynamic results for gas compression.
Analysis of optionsA: The ratio p2/p1 is the compression ratio, not efficiency → false.B: For a compressor, discharge pressure p2 > inlet pressure p1, so p2/p1 > 1 → true.C: Work per cycle divided by stroke volume defines mean effective pressure, not capacity → false.D: For a given pressure ratio, isothermal compression requires the minimum work; polytropic/adiabatic require more → false.
Final AnswerThe compression ratio for a compressor is always greater than unity.