A nuclear power plant generates 750 MW; the reactor temperature is 588.15 K (315°C) and a river with water temperature of 293.15 K (20°C) is available.
(a) What is the maximum possible thermal efficiency of the plant, and what is the minimum rate at which heat must be discarded to the river?
(b) If the actual thermal efficiency of the plant is 60% of the maximum, at what rate must heat be discarded to the river, and what is the temperature rise of the river if it has a flow rate of 165 m3 s-1?