Segment V5.7: Energy Transfer

(Related to Textbook Section 5.3.2 - Application of the Energy Equation)

Various types of energy occur in flowing fluids.

Work must be done on the device shown to turn it over because the system gains potential energy as the heavy (dark) liquid is raised above the light (clear) liquid. This potential energy is converted into kinetic energy which is either dissipated due to friction as the fluid flows down the ramp or is converted into power by the turbine and then dissipated by friction. The fluid finally becomes stationary again. The initial work done in turning it over eventually results in a very slight increase in the system temperature.