Step 1: Concept
The efficiency of a Carnot engine is given by the formula $\eta = 1 - \frac{T_c}{T_h}$ where $T_h$ and $T_c$ are the absolute temperatures of the hot and cold reservoirs respectively. The temperatures must be in Kelvin.
Step 2: Meaning
Efficiency here refers to the ratio of work done by the engine to the heat absorbed from the hot reservoir, expressed as a percentage.
Step 3: Analysis
First, convert the given temperatures into Kelvin:
$127^\circ\text{C} = 127 + 273.15 = 400.15 \, \text{K}$
$27^\circ\text{C} = 27 + 273.15 = 300.15 \, \text{K}$
Now apply the Carnot efficiency formula:
\[\eta = 1 - \frac{T_c}{T_h} = 1 - \frac{300.15 \, \text{K}}{400.15 \, \text{K}}\]
Simplify this expression:
\[\eta = 1 - \frac{300.15}{400.15} = 1 - 0.7502\]
Thus,
\[\eta \approx 0.2498 \text{ or } 24.98\%\]
Since the options are given in percentages, we round to the nearest whole number:
\[\eta \approx 25\%\]
Step 4: Conclusion
The efficiency of the Carnot engine is approximately $25\%$.
Final Answer: (A)