You are analyzing the theoretical maximum efficiency of heat engines. The Carnot cycle sets the upper limit — real engines always fall below this due to irreversible processes.
Formula Sheet
η_Carnot = 1 − T_c/T_hW = Q_h − Q_cΔS ≥ 0Q = mcΔTWhat is the Carnot efficiency of this engine? (T_hot = 600 K, T_cold = 300 K)
If the engine absorbs 800 J per cycle from the hot reservoir, what is the maximum work output per cycle?
Heat is rejected to the cold reservoir each cycle. How much heat is rejected?
The Second Law of Thermodynamics states that the entropy of an isolated system: