Kelvin–Planck Statement
The Kelvin–Plank statement of the second law of thermodynamics introduces the concept of a thermal reservoir, which is an essential part of understanding the limitations on energy conversion in thermodynamic processes. A thermal reservoir, while an idealization, serves as a useful model for certain systems, including large bodies of water (like oceans) or even the Earth’s atmosphere. The key characteristic of a thermal reservoir is that it possesses infinite heat capacity, and its temperature remains constant regardless of the amount of energy added or removed by heat transfer.
The statement of the Kelvin–Planck principle of the second law can be summarized as follows: In a thermodynamic cycle, it is impossible for any system to perform work on its surroundings while solely receiving energy by heat transfer from a single thermal reservoir.
The critical implication of the Kelvin–Planck statement is that it is impossible to achieve a complete and perfect conversion of heat into work. Some portion of the heat extracted will always be discarded as waste heat to a lower-temperature environment. This statement sets a fundamental limit on the efficiency of heat engines, which are devices designed to convert thermal energy into useful work.
In essence, the Kelvin–Planck statement emphasizes that perfect perpetual motion machines of the first kind (those that continuously perform work without any energy input) are impossible to construct in reality. It underscores the importance of energy conservation and the inherent inefficiencies in energy conversion processes.