Calculadora de Eficiência de Carnot

The Carnot Efficiency Calculator determines the maximum theoretical efficiency of a heat engine operating between two constant-temperature reservoirs. The calculation uses the formula η = 1 − T_c/T_h, where T_c is the absolute temperature of the cold reservoir and T_h that of the hot reservoir, both in Kelvin. This equation, derived from the Carnot cycle, represents the upper limit of efficiency for any real heat engine, regardless of working fluid or design.

Practical use of this tool is essential in thermodynamic engineering, engine design, power plants, and refrigeration. For example, when designing a steam turbine, the engineer can calculate the maximum possible efficiency given the boiler and condenser temperatures. This helps identify improvement potential and compare real performance with the ideal. The calculator is useful both for students learning fundamental concepts and for professionals seeking to optimize systems.

Important precautions: temperatures must be in Kelvin (K), not Celsius or Fahrenheit. Common mistakes include using relative temperatures or swapping the values. Remember that Carnot efficiency is a theoretical limit; real engines always have lower efficiency due to irreversibilities like friction and heat loss. Additionally, the formula assumes infinite reservoirs and reversible processes, ideal conditions that do not occur in practice. Therefore, use the result as a reference, not as an exact prediction.