Carnot Cycle Explorer – AP Physics 2

Ideal Efficiency

$$ e_{Carnot} = 1 - \frac{T_C}{T_H} $$

The maximum possible efficiency of any heat engine operating between two temperatures relies entirely on the absolute Kelvin temperature ratio.

The 4 Processes

1. Isothermal Exp: Gas expands at constant $T_H$. Heat $Q_H$ added.

2. Adiabatic Exp: Gas expands, $Q=0$. Temp drops to $T_C$.

3. Isothermal Comp: Gas compressed at $T_C$. Heat $Q_C$ expelled.

4. Adiabatic Comp: Gas compressed, $Q=0$. Temp rises back to $T_H$.

Tags

thermodynamicsPV diagramengineentropy

Engine Output Diagnostics

Heat Added ($Q_H$):
Heat Rejected ($Q_C$):
Net Work ($W$):

Carnot Efficiency ($e$):

ISOTHERMAL EXPANSION

Hot Reservoir ($T_H$) 800 K

Cold Reservoir ($T_C$) 300 K

Expansion Volume ($V_2$) 2.5 L

The PV Diagram Area equals the net Work done by the engine per cycle. Notice how increasing $T_H$ or lowering $T_C$ widens the graphical area, meaning more work output.