University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 20 - The Second Law of Thermodynamics - Problems - Discussion Questions - Page 676: Q20.14

Answer

Yes, it consumes more power.

Work Step by Step

If the outside temperature is $20^{\circ}C$, more heat leaks into the cold compartment per second than if the outside temperature is $15^{\circ}C$. This is because the temperature gradient between inside and outside is larger, which results in a larger heat flow. The refrigerator must work harder to remove more heat, meaning it consumes more electrical power. It can also be seen that a refrigerator's coefficient of performance decreases as the outside temperature rises, which leads to the same conclusion.
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