Max Efficiency of a Carnot Engine vs Other Engines

In summary, the difference between a Carnot engine and a regular engine is that the efficiency of a regular engine is less than or equal to 1-(cold temp / hot temp), while a Carnot engine represents the maximum efficiency possible, which is equal to 1-(cold temp / hot temp). This idea is the basis of Carnot's theorem, which states that there are no truly reversible heat engines and a Carnot engine is the most efficient.
  • #1
cos(e)
27
0
quick question, is the difference between a carnot engine to an engine is that the engines eff is less than or equal 1-(cold temp / hot temp), and the carnot is the max of this which is just equal 1-(cold temp / hot temp)?
 
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  • #2
cos(e) said:
quick question, is the difference between a carnot engine to an engine is that the engines eff is less than or equal 1-(cold temp / hot temp), and the carnot is the max of this which is just equal 1-(cold temp / hot temp)?
That's about it. This idea is the basis of Carnot's theorem.

A Carnot engine is essentially a reversible heat engine and since there are no truly reversible heat engines, it therefore follows that a Carnot engine represents the maximum efficiency achievable.
 
  • #3
thanks
 

Related to Max Efficiency of a Carnot Engine vs Other Engines

What is the Carnot engine?

The Carnot engine is a theoretical engine that operates on the principle of thermodynamic efficiency. It was proposed by French engineer Sadi Carnot in 1824 and is considered to be the most efficient engine possible.

What is the maximum efficiency of a Carnot engine?

The maximum efficiency of a Carnot engine is determined by the Carnot cycle, and is given by the formula: η = (T1 - T2) / T1, where T1 is the temperature of the hot reservoir and T2 is the temperature of the cold reservoir.

How does the efficiency of a Carnot engine compare to other engines?

The Carnot engine has the highest theoretical efficiency of any engine. It serves as a standard for comparison to other real-world engines, which can never achieve 100% efficiency due to factors such as friction and heat loss.

What are some examples of other engines besides the Carnot engine?

Examples of other engines include steam engines, gasoline engines, and diesel engines. These engines operate on different principles and have different efficiencies, but they all fall short of the theoretical maximum efficiency of the Carnot engine.

Why is the Carnot engine considered to be the most efficient engine?

The Carnot engine is considered to be the most efficient engine because it operates on a reversible cycle and has no internal friction or heat loss. It serves as a benchmark for the maximum possible efficiency of any heat engine.

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