College Physics III – Thermodynamics, Electricity, and Magnetism

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Coefficient of performance

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College Physics III – Thermodynamics, Electricity, and Magnetism

Definition

The coefficient of performance (COP) is a measure of the efficiency of a refrigeration system or heat pump. It is defined as the ratio of useful heating or cooling provided to the work required to achieve it.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. COP is calculated using the formula $COP = \frac{Q}{W}$, where $Q$ is the heat transferred and $W$ is the work input.
  2. For refrigerators, COP typically measures how effectively they remove heat from a low-temperature space.
  3. For heat pumps, COP measures how effectively they transfer heat into a high-temperature space.
  4. A higher COP indicates a more efficient system, meaning less work is needed for the same amount of heating or cooling.
  5. COP values are generally greater than 1 because these systems move more energy than they consume.

Review Questions

  • How do you calculate the coefficient of performance (COP) for a refrigeration system?
  • Why does a higher COP indicate a more efficient refrigeration system or heat pump?
  • What does it mean if the COP value is greater than 1?
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