To analyze the scenario described in a converging-diverging channel where the flow velocity is 150 m/s and the area decreases by about 20%, we can apply principles of fluid dynamics and thermodynamics.
In a converging-diverging channel, as the cross-sectional area decreases, we typically see an increase in velocity according to the principle of conservation of mass (continuity equation). As the flow accelerates, you can expect a reduction in pressure and potentially affect the temperature depending on the nature of the flow (compressible vs. incompressible).
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If the flow is compressible (e.g., when the flow is approaching or surpassing the speed of sound), a decrease in area leads to an increase in velocity, resulting in changes in pressure and temperature due to the conversion of kinetic energy to internal energy. If the flow is accelerating and reaching supersonic conditions, temperatures generally drop due to the expansion effect.
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If the flow is incompressible (e.g., below the speed of sound), the velocity increase associated with a decreasing area doesn't have a significant effect on temperature unless heat exchange with the environment occurs, which is not specified.
Given that the problem doesn't specify whether the flow is compressible or incompressible, we also don't have additional information such as the pressure conditions or whether heat exchange is occurring.
The most cautious conclusion we can draw is:
It is impossible to say what happens to the temperature without additional information.
So, the correct answer is: It is impossible to say what happens to the temperature without additional information.
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