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Carnot Engine Efficiency and Waste Heat Calculator

η = 1 − T_cold/T_hot — maximum possible efficiency.

Calculates the Carnot efficiency η = 1 − T_c/T_h, the maximum work W = Q_h·η, and the waste heat Q_c = Q_h − W for a heat engine operating between two reservoirs.

Dr. Helena Ortiz By Dr. Helena Ortiz
Published Last reviewed 1 min read

Inputs

K
K
J

Results

Enter values and click Calculate to see results.
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How to use this calculator

  1. Fill in the inputs above using the units you already have.
  2. Values update automatically as you type — no submit button needed.
  3. Hover any result row for the underlying formula and intermediate values.

Formula

η = 1 − T_c/T_h; W = Q_h·η

In depth

Calculates the Carnot efficiency η = 1 − T_c/T_h, the maximum work W = Q_h·η, and the waste heat Q_c = Q_h − W for a heat engine operating between two reservoirs.