Sample interview questions: Discuss the principles of thermodynamics in the context of automotive engineering.
Sample answer:
- First law of thermodynamics: Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed. In an automotive engine, the chemical energy stored in fuel is converted to thermal energy through combustion. This thermal energy is then converted to mechanical energy by the engine’s pistons and crankshaft.
- Second law of thermodynamics: The entropy of a closed system always increases. In an automotive engine, entropy increases due to friction, heat transfer, and other irreversible processes. This means that some of the energy that is converted from chemical to thermal energy is lost as heat, and not all of the thermal energy is converted to mechanical energy.
- Third law of thermodynamics: The entropy of a perfect crystal at absolute zero is zero. This law is not directly applicable to automotive engineering, but it is a fundamental principle of thermodynamics that helps to explain the behavior of materials at low temperatures.
Applications of thermodynamics in automotive engineering:
- Engine design: The principles of thermodynamics are used to design engines that are efficient and powerful. This includes optimizing the combustion process, reducing friction, and m… Read full answer