Question

In ocean-thermal-energy conversion plants, vapors of a volatile liquid like __ are used to run the turbine of a generator.

Answer 1

The ocean-thermal-energy conversion plants can operate if the temperature difference between the water at the surface and water at depths up to 2 kilometers are 293 K ( ${20}^{\circ }$C) or more. The warm surface water is used to boil a volatile liquid like ammonia. The vapors of liquid are then used to run the turbine of a generator. The cooled water from the depth of the ocean is pumped up and condenses vapor again to liquid.