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GATE 2026 AE – Question 14

Propulsion · Basics of thermodynamics · 1 mark · Multiple choice

Which one of the following makes an ideal air-standard Stirling cycle?

  1. Two reversible isobars, and two reversible adiabatics
  2. Two reversible isotherms, and two reversible isobars
  3. Two reversible isotherms, and two reversible isochores
  4. Isentropic compression, constant volume heat addition, isentropic expansion, and constant volume heat rejection

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Correct answer: (C) Two reversible isotherms, and two reversible isochores

Explanation

The Stirling cycle has isothermal compression, constant-volume heating (regeneration), isothermal expansion and constant-volume cooling. Two isobars and two adiabatics is the Brayton cycle, and the last option is the Otto cycle.