Multiple choice

Thermal efficiency of a diesel engine may be expected to be in the range of

  1. 50-65%

  2. 25-35%

  3. 15-20%

  4. 10-15%
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Diesel engines typically operate with thermal efficiency in the 25-35% range, meaning only about a quarter to a third of the fuel's chemical energy is converted to useful mechanical work. The remaining energy is lost as heat through exhaust and cooling systems. This is significantly lower than electric motors but higher than early steam engines.

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