How is the sensible heat ratio calculated?

The sensible heat ratio is an important concept in thermodynamics and HVAC systems as it helps quantify the distribution of energy within the heating and cooling processes. The correct approach to calculate the sensible heat ratio involves dividing the sensible heat by the total heat.

Sensible heat refers to the energy that causes a change in temperature of a substance, while total heat encompasses both sensible heat and latent heat (the heat required for a substance to change phase without a temperature change). By dividing the sensible heat by the total heat, you get a ratio that indicates the proportion of the total heat that is attributable to the change in temperature, excluding the effects of moisture content and phase changes.

This ratio is particularly useful in air conditioning and refrigeration, as it helps assess the efficiency of cooling systems when considering both temperature and humidity. Systems with a higher sensible heat ratio are more effective in cooling the air temperature, while those with a lower ratio may be more focused on dehumidification.

Understanding this concept helps in designing and evaluating HVAC systems for their performance, ensuring they meet the desired comfort and energy efficiency standards.