Carnot Efficiency Calculator
Calculate the maximum possible efficiency of a heat engine using Carnot efficiency: eta = 1 - Tc/Th.
Carnot Efficiency
0.5000
Carnot Efficiency vs Hot Reservoir Temperature
Formula
## Carnot Efficiency The Carnot efficiency is the theoretical maximum efficiency any heat engine can achieve operating between two temperatures. ### Formula **eta = 1 - T_cold / T_hot** Temperatures must be in Kelvin. No real engine can exceed this efficiency due to the second law of thermodynamics.
Exemplo Resolvido
A heat engine operating between 600 K and 300 K.
- 01eta = 1 - Tc/Th
- 02eta = 1 - 300/600
- 03eta = 1 - 0.5
- 04eta = 0.5 = 50%
Perguntas Frequentes
Can any real engine achieve Carnot efficiency?
No. The Carnot efficiency represents an ideal, reversible process. All real engines have irreversible losses (friction, heat leaks) and operate below this limit.
How can efficiency be improved?
Increase the hot temperature or decrease the cold temperature. This is why power plants use superheated steam and cold cooling water.
What is a typical power plant efficiency?
Modern coal plants: 33-45%. Gas turbines with combined cycle: up to 62%. All below their respective Carnot limits.
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