A Fridge in Space

By Lok C. Lew Yan Voon

Abstract

This case analyzes the principles of thermodynamics and the operating cycle of an adiabatic demagnetizing refrigerator (ADR), a piece of equipment NASA uses to keep x-ray detectors cold enough to work. A synthesis of all the basic principles of thermodynamics, the case would be appropriate for students enrolled in a thermal physics course, typically taught at a sophomore level.

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Date Posted

03/02/2000

Overview

Objectives

Provide students with a stimulating real-life application of thermal physics.
Develop critical thinking and reasoning skills.
Train students to synthesize facts from various portions of a course.
Illustrate the variety of physical parameters.
Illustrate the difference between textbook and real-life physics.

Keywords

Thermodynamics; heat energy; heat engine; adiabatic; isothermal; adiabatic demagnetizing refrigerator; magnetic refrigeration; magnetocaloric effect; x-ray spectrometer; cryogenics; NASA

Subject Headings

Aerospace Engineering

Engineering (General)

Physics

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Undergraduate lower division

FORMAT

PDF

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

LANGUAGE

English

TYPE/METHODS

Analysis (Issues), Interrupted

Teaching Notes & Answer Key

Teaching Notes

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Answer Key

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