Carnot Cycle Thermodynamic Visualizer
The most efficient possible heat engine operating between two temperatures
Temperature Controls
Cycle Parameters
Maximum Theoretical Efficiency: η = 1 - (TC/TH) = 0.571 (57.1%)
Isothermal Expansion
System absorbs heat QH from hot reservoir at constant temperature TH while expanding. Work is done by the system.
Adiabatic Expansion
System expands further with no heat transfer (Q=0). Temperature drops from TH to TC. Work is done by the system.
Isothermal Compression
System rejects heat QC to cold reservoir at constant temperature TC while compressing. Work is done on the system.
Adiabatic Compression
System compresses further with no heat transfer (Q=0). Temperature rises from TC back to TH. Work is done on the system.
