Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Efficiency measures how effectively a device or process converts input energy into useful output energy. It is calculated by dividing useful output energy by total input energy.
Related terms
Work-Energy Theorem: This theorem states that work done on an object is equal to its change in kinetic energy.
Carnot Efficiency: This is the maximum possible efficiency for any heat engine operating between two temperatures.
Power Output: Power output refers to how much work or energy is produced per unit time.