Engines: Crash Course Physics

The video explores the historical significance of steam engines, their mechanics, and thermodynamic principles. It explains how heat engines convert thermal energy into mechanical work, focusing on steam engines and their efficiency. The concept of the Carnot engine and cycle is introduced to illustrate ideal engine efficiency. The video also covers refrigeration systems, highlighting their operation and connection to heat engines.

How is the efficiency of a heat engine calculated?

What are the differences between heat engines and refrigerators?

Discuss the concept of the coefficient of performance (COP) in refrigeration.