Carnot Cycle

Definition

The Carnot Cycle is a theoretical thermodynamic cycle that consists of four reversible processes: two isothermal processes and two adiabatic processes. It is used as a benchmark for the maximum efficiency that any heat engine can achieve.

Related terms

Heat Engine: A device that converts thermal energy into mechanical work.

Efficiency:

A measure of how effectively a system converts input energy into useful output energy.

Adiabatic Process:

A process in which no heat enters or leaves the system, so there is no transfer of thermal energy.