Quantum degeneracy effect on the work output from a Stirling cycle

The effect of quantum degeneracy on the work output from a Stirling cycle w orking at quantum degeneracy conditions (QDCs) is analyzed. Expressions for net work outputs of Stirling power cycles working with monatomic ideal Bos e and Fermi gases are derived by using the quantum ideal gas equation of st ate. Ratios of net work outputs of Stirling cycles working with Bose and Fe rmi gases to the net work output of a classical Stirling cycle (R-W(B) and R-W(F), respectively) are obtained. Variations of R-W(B) and R-W(F) with T- H are examined for a given temperature ratio (tau =T-L/T-H) and a specific volume ratio (r(nu)=nu (H)/nu (L)). At QDC, it is seen that R-W(B) has a ma ximum value, which is greater than unity. On the other hand, there is no ma ximum or minimum point for R-W(F) and R(W)(F)less than or equal to1 for any values of T-H. Consequently, the use of Bose gas as a working fluid in a S tirling cycle provides an advantage since it causes the net work output per cycle to increase by consuming more heat energy. This fact is seen to be i n the opposite direction for a Stirling cycle working with Fermi gas. (C) 2 001 American Institute of Physics.