Carnot efficiency
eta = 1 - Tc / Th
Thermodynamics calculator
Ideal Engine Cycle Efficiency Calculator
Calculate Carnot efficiency for an upper-bound cycle comparison.
Calculator
Enter thermal values
Select units beside each input. Results update automatically.
Result
About this calculator
How it works
Carnot efficiency is the theoretical maximum efficiency for a heat engine operating between two reservoirs.
Formulas
Formulas used
Worked example
Example calculation
Efficiency
Th = 900 K and Tc = 300 K gives 66.7%
Guide
How to use this calculator
- Enter the known temperature, pressure, energy, humidity, or material values.
- Select units beside each input where unit menus are shown.
- Use the highlighted result for screening and verify assumptions before design use.
Reference
What the results mean
Ideal efficiency
Upper-bound thermal efficiency for reversible operation.
Temperature ratio
Efficiency depends on absolute reservoir temperatures.
Assumptions and limits
Before using the result
- Calculations use simplified ideal relations or common approximations for quick engineering checks.
- Real systems may require property tables, phase behavior, transient analysis, losses, and code or manufacturer data.
- Use verified data and qualified engineering judgement for final design or safety-critical work.
FAQ
Ideal Engine Cycle Efficiency Calculator questions
Are these results suitable for final thermodynamic design?
Use these tools for education, screening, and early checks. Final work should use verified properties, standards, operating limits, and qualified engineering review.
Why can real thermal systems differ from these calculations?
Real systems include losses, non-ideal properties, transient behavior, two-phase effects, humidity assumptions, heat leaks, and measurement uncertainty.
Can I use different units?
Yes. Select units beside inputs where menus are shown. Values are converted internally before solving.
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