\[\eta=1-\frac{T_C}{T_H}\]
Variables
eta[η]Carnot efficiency (dimensionless)
Tc[T_C]cold reservoir temperature (K)
Th[T_H]hot reservoir temperature (K)
Description
What is this formula?
The Carnot efficiency defines the maximum theoretical efficiency that any heat engine can achieve when operating between two thermal reservoirs. It represents an ideal reversible engine and establishes the upper limit for all real heat engines.
When to use it
Use this formula to estimate the maximum possible efficiency of a heat engine when the temperatures of the hot and cold reservoirs are known. It is fundamental in thermodynamics and energy conversion analysis.
Example
Given:
Th = 800 K
Tc = 300 K
Formula:
η = 1 - Tc/Th
Substitution:
η = 1 - 300/800
Result:
η = 0.625 = 62.5%
Applications
Power plants, steam turbines, gas turbines, internal combustion engines, energy systems, thermal power analysis, and thermodynamic education.