In analyzing the performance of a thermal system, the engineer must be able to identify the relevant heat transfer processes. Only then can the system behavior be properly quantified. For the following systems identify the pertinent processes, designating them by appropriately labeled arrows on a sketch of the system. Answer additional questions that appear in the problem statement. (a) Identify the heat transfer processes that determine the temperature of an asphalt pavement on a summer day. Write an energy balance for the surface of the pavement.
(b) Microwave radiation is known to be transmitted by plastics, glass, and ceramics, but to be absorbed by materials having polar molecules such as water. Water molecules exposed to microwave radiation align and reverse alignment with the microwave radiation at frequencies up to 10 9 S -I, causing heat to be generated. Contrast cooking in a microwave oven with cooking in a conventional radiant or convection oven. In each case what is the physical mechanism responsible for heating the food? Which oven has the greater energy utilization efficiency? Why? Microwave heating is being considered for drying clothes. How would operation of a microwave clothes dryer differ from a conventional dryer? Which is likely to have the greater energy utilization efficiency and why?
(d) Consider an incandescent light source that consists of a tungsten filament enclosed in a gas-filled glass bulb. Assuming steady-state operation with the filament at a temperature of approximately 2900 K, list all the pertinent heat transfer processes for (i) the filament and (ii) the glass bulb.
(e) There is considerable interest in developing building materials that have improved insulating qualities. The development of such materials would do much to enhance energy conservation by reducing space heating requirements. It has been suggested that superior structural and insulating qualities could be obtained by using the composite shown. The material consists of a honeycomb, with cells of square cross section, sandwiched between solid slabs. The cells are filled with air, and the slabs, as well as the honeycomb matrix, are fabricated from plastics of low thermal conductivity. For heat transfer normal to the slabs, identify all heat transfer processes pertinent to the performance of the composite. Suggest ways in which this performance could be enhanced.
(f) A thermocouple junction (bead) is used to measure the temperature of a hot gas stream flowing through a channel by inserting the junction into the mainstream of the gas. The surface of the channel is cooled such that its temperature is well below that of the gas. Identify the heat transfer processes associated with the junction surface. Will the junction sense a temperature that is less than, equal to, or greater than the gas temperature? A radiation shield is a small, open-ended tube that encloses the thermocouple junction, yet allows for passage of the gas through the tube. How does use of such a shield improve the accuracy of the temperature measurement?
(g) A double-glazed, glass fire screen is inserted between a wood-burning fireplace and the interior of a room. The screen consists of two vertical glass plates that are separated by a space through which room air may flow (the space is open at the top and bottom). Identify the heat transfer processes associated with the fire screen.