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Physics · L4 · The Carnot cycle: four reversible steps

The Carnot cycle's four steps — isothermal expansion, adiabatic expansion, isothermal compression, adiabatic compression — as a closed loop back to the start.

by @openstemUpdated Physics
Start stateT_h, p₁, V₁🔥 Isothermal expansionT = T_h constantAbsorbs Q_h from hot reservoirAdiabatic expansionQ = 0T falls T_h → T_c❄️ Isothermal compressionT = T_c constantRejects Q_c to cold reservoirAdiabatic compressionQ = 0T rises T_c → T_h

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