Carnot Efficiency

η_{C} = 1 - \frac{T _{C}}{T _{H}}

Maximum efficiency of heat engine between two temperatures.

Variables

η_C

Carnot efficiency

Maximum efficiency

unitless

T_C

Cold temperature

Cold reservoir temp

T_H

Hot temperature

Hot reservoir temp

From Carnot cycle: η = W/Q_H = 1 - Q_C/Q_H = 1 - T_C/T_H.

0/5000