Question

Think about the drinking bird at the beginning of this section (Figure 15.21). Although the bird enjoys the theoretical maximum efficiency possible, if left to its own devices over time, the bird will cease “drinking.” What are some of the dissipative processes that might cause the bird’s motion to cease?

Short answer

Due to increasing friction generated by use and heat loss through the glass, the efficiency of this toy is reduced.

Step-by-step solution

Explain the scenario.

It is a drinking bird toy that functions in the same way as Carnot's engine. The toy moves back and forth due to the methylene chloride filling contained in it. Its motion stops after a long period of operation. The toy's inability to function implies that its efficiency has been reduced. As a result of dissipative processes, efficiency diminishes.

Find the dissipative mechanism that caused the motion of the bird to cease.

The friction produced at the toy's joints will transform kinetic energy into useless forms like heat and sound, while the toy works for a long period of time. As a result, the toy's efficiency will deteriorate with time, and it will eventually stop operating. The warmth that may be lost via the glass is another method that contributes to energy loss. Work output is also reduced as a result of this.

As a result of friction and heat loss, the bird's motion stops due to the drop in efficiency.