Carnot efficiency

04/28/17

“How can we calculate the maximum efficiency of a heat engine?”

 

Due to the second law of thermodynamics, physics proves that there is a limit to the efficiency of all heat engines. However, we know that from practical experience that some heat engines are more efficient than others. So how can we predict what the maximum efficiency of a heat engine can be? Well, engineers and physicists have thought about this same problem for many long years, and after deep exploration into the subject an equation known as the carnot efficiency has been fabricated. This equation states that the maximum efficiency of an engine is the difference between the maximum temperature and the minimum temperature divided by the max temperature, or that (nu) = (T_max-T_min)/t_max. As a result, the efficiency can never be greater or equal to 100%, and if there is no difference in the temperature the maximum possible efficiency is 0%

Heat engine theory

04/27/17

“How can we turn heat into useful energy?”
It is a well-known fact that energy can be converted into heat. However, is it possible to accomplish the opposite? Well, let’s think about it. We know that if we connect two points with different temperatures, then a heat flow will take place. And since this means that there is a  transfer of energy, it can be redirected into useful work. A machine that accomplishes this is known as a heat engine, which is used in everyday life from jet engines to electricity generators.