The Mechanical Engineering Handbook



Carnot Cycle Efficiency

Carnot Cycle Efficiency Equation



$$ \eta = 1- \frac{T_C}{T_H} $$ where:

η   =   Efficiency   (Dimensionless)

TH   =   Temperature of the hot reservoir   (K)

TC   =   Temperature of the cold reservoir   (K)


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Equation Assumptions



  • Expansion and compression processes are adiabatic.
  • Process is reversible.
  • Heat transfer is isothermal.
  • Thermal reservoirs are perfect.