Question

Ocean thermal energy conversion plants can work only when the minimum temperature difference between water at surface and water at depths of up to 2 km is

• A. $10°C$
• B. $20°C$
• C. $30°C$
• D. $40°C$

Answer 1

The correct option is B

$20°C$

The explanation for the correct option:

$\mathbf{20}\mathbf{°}\mathit{C}$

1. In ocean thermal energy, the minimum temperature difference between water at the surface and water at depths of up to 2 km should be $\mathbf{20}\mathbf{°}\mathit{C}$.
2. Ocean thermal energy is the energy harnessed as a result of the temperature difference between the water at the surface and the water at depth in the ocean.
3. Ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) power plants operate as long as the temperature between the warm surface water and the cold deep water differs by approximately 20°C.

Hence, the correct option is B. The minimum temperature difference between water at the surface and water at depths of up to 2 km is $\mathbf{20}\mathbf{°}\mathit{C}$.