Which of the following power systems are limited by the 2nd

Which of the following power systems are limited by the 2nd Law of Thermodynamics, i.e., the Carnot efficiency?

a) Coal-fired steam power plant

b) Nuclear reactor steam power plant

c) Hydroelectric power plant

d) Solar photovoltaic system

e) Turbojet aircraft engine

f) Internal combustion automobile engine

g) Hydrogen fuel cell

Solution

           All the given power systems are limited by Carnot efficiency. We can not get the Carnot efficiency in any process or system. It gives the upper bond to the processes. No process is exist with a efficiency greater than carnot efficiency. His statement says that it is impossible to construct a heat engine or heat pump with 100 percent efficiency even in the ideal conditions.