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This course introduces the energy technologies in use today, and those that are in the research stage as possible alternatives. This course is aligned with the textbook "Energy and the Environment" by Ristinen/Kraushaar. Instructor: Lee McMains

Introduction and instructions

In this module we will consider heat pumps, and discern how they're different than heat engines.

Objective and Big Questions

At the completion of this module you should be able to:
  • Describe the compression refrigeration cycle.
  • Understand other methods of cooling.
  • Understand other methods of cooling.
  • Apply the Coefficient of Performance to determine heat pump efficencies.

As you work through this module please keep the following questions in mind:
  • Can a heat engine be 100% efficient?
  • How does the refrigeration cycle work?
  • Of two different air conditioning units, which is "better"?
Timeframe

We will spend 1 week on this module.

Reading

For this module, please begin by reading pages 79-82 of the textbook. Be sure to read the tables, look at the figures, and study the examples.

3 Minute Masteries

Please review (read the text and watch the associated video) the 3-Minute Masteries (3MMs) for this module which closely emulate in-class lectures (only much shorter!)

Discussion

Read this article on heat pumps .

Based on your knowledge of how heat pumps work (they do work to move heat), which of the advancements mentioned do you think would be best for Colorado?

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Source:  OpenStax, Introduction to energy technologies. OpenStax CNX. Sep 27, 2013 Download for free at http://cnx.org/content/col11573/1.2
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