Question

How is the coefficient of performance of an absorption refrigeration system defined?

Short answer

Answer: The coefficient of performance (COP) in an absorption refrigeration system is a dimensionless value that represents the efficiency of the cooling system. It is defined as the ratio of the useful cooling effect (from the evaporator) to the input work or heat supplied (to the generator). Higher COP values indicate more efficient systems, providing a greater cooling effect with less input work or heat.

Step-by-step solution

Absorption Refrigeration System

An absorption refrigeration system is a type of cooling system that uses a heat source to provide cooling. It uses a refrigeration cycle in which the refrigerant undergoes a change of state (evaporation and absorption) to transfer heat from a low-temperature source to a high-temperature sink. The key components of an absorption refrigeration system are the absorber, generator, evaporator, and condenser.

Coefficient of Performance (COP)

The coefficient of performance (COP) is a dimensionless value that represents the efficiency of a cooling system. It is defined as the ratio of the useful cooling effect (from the evaporator) to the input work or heat supplied (to the generator). Mathematically, it can be represented as: COP = \frac{Useful\ cooling\ effect}{Input\ work\ or\ heat\ supplied} In the context of an absorption refrigeration system, the COP is used to compare the performance of different systems or configurations. Higher COP values represent more efficient systems, which can provide more cooling effect with less input work or heat.