EngineeringToolkit

Carnot Efficiency Formula

The maximum theoretical efficiency of a heat engine operating between two reservoirs.

Formula

η = 1 - Tc/Th

Discipline: Thermodynamics. Result unit: dimensionless.

Variables and units

  • η — Efficiency: Maximum thermal efficiency
  • Tc — Cold Reservoir Temperature (K): Absolute cold reservoir temperature
  • Th — Hot Reservoir Temperature (K): Absolute hot reservoir temperature