Carnot efficiency formula calculator

What is Carnot Efficiency?

Carnot efficiency represents the maximum possible thermodynamic efficiency of a heat engine operating between two temperatures. It was developed by French physicist Sadi Carnot in 1824.

How to Use This Calculator

1. Enter the temperature of the hot reservoir in degrees Celsius
2. Enter the temperature of the cold reservoir in degrees Celsius
3. Click the "Calculate" button to compute the Carnot efficiency
4. The results will show the efficiency percentage, and the temperatures in Kelvin

Important Notes

• The efficiency is expressed as a percentage (e.g., 40% means 0.40)
• The calculator automatically converts Celsius to Kelvin for the calculation
• The hot temperature must always be greater than the cold temperature
• The efficiency is higher when the temperature difference between the hot and cold reservoirs is greater

Principle Behind Carnot Efficiency

The Carnot cycle is a theoretical model that describes the functioning of an ideal heat engine. The efficiency formula is derived from the second law of thermodynamics and is given by:

η = 1 - T_c / T_h

Where:

• η is the Carnot efficiency
• T_c is the absolute temperature of the cold reservoir
• T_h is the absolute temperature of the hot reservoir