Carnot Cycle Calculator
Compute Carnot efficiency and heat-pump/refrigerator COP.
Input Data
Hot Temperature K
K
Cold Temperature K
K
Results
η = 1 − T_c/T_h.
0.5
η in percent.
50%
COP_ref = T_c/(T_h−T_c).
1
COP_hp = T_h/(T_h−T_c).
2
At a glance:η = 1 − T_c/T_h; COP_ref = T_c/(T_h−T_c); COP_hp = T_h/(T_h−T_c). Complements carnot-efficiency and carnot-refrigerator.
Formula
η = 1 − T_c/T_h.
$$\eta = 1 - \frac{T_c}{T_h}, \quad \text{COP}_{\text{ref}} = \frac{T_c}{T_h - T_c}, \quad \text{COP}_{\text{hp}} = \frac{T_h}{T_h - T_c}$$How to Use
- Enter T_h and T_c (Kelvin).
- The tool returns efficiency and COPs.
Case Studies
T_h=500, T_c=300
η = 0.40 (40%).
FAQ
Max efficiency?
Carnot is the theoretical upper bound for any heat engine.
Related Tools
References
Content review: Calculatorism Science Team. Results are for reference only; please refer to the relevant authorities for the official figures.