Subtopic: Thermodynamic principles of I.C. engines
Question Statement:
The efficiency of a cyclone separator can be increased by
Options:
(A) decreasing the size of the particles
(B) increasing the velocity of inlet air
(C) reducing the length of the separator
(D) reducing the diameter of air outlet
Official Answer Key:
B
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
Cyclone separation relies on centrifugal force to throw particles to the outer wall; centrifugal force is proportional to the square of the tangential (inlet) velocity. Increasing the inlet air velocity increases this centrifugal force and hence separation efficiency. Decreasing particle size (A) actually reduces efficiency (smaller particles are harder to separate by centrifugal force, being more influenced by drag). Reducing the separator length (C) reduces residence time and lowers efficiency. Reducing the outlet diameter (D) increases pressure drop and outlet gas velocity but is not the primary lever for improving separation efficiency in the way that inlet velocity is. Hence (B) is correct.
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