1. What is the Efficiency Formula?

The efficiency formula calculates the ratio of useful output to total input, expressed as a percentage. It's a fundamental concept in physics and engineering to measure how well a system converts input energy or work into useful output.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the efficiency formula:

Where:

• \( \eta \) — Efficiency (percentage)
• \( \text{output} \) — Useful work or energy output
• \( \text{input} \) — Total work or energy input

Explanation: The formula compares the useful output to the total input, with perfect efficiency being 100% (all input converted to useful output).

3. Importance of Efficiency Calculation

Details: Efficiency calculations are crucial for evaluating system performance, comparing different designs, identifying energy losses, and optimizing processes in mechanical, electrical, and thermal systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both output and input values in consistent units (e.g., both in joules or both in watts). Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can efficiency be greater than 100%?
A: No, efficiency cannot exceed 100% as that would violate the conservation of energy principle. Values over 100% indicate measurement errors.

Q2: What are typical efficiency values?
A: Electric motors: 70-95%, combustion engines: 20-40%, solar panels: 15-22%, LED lights: 30-50%.

Q3: What causes efficiency to be less than 100%?
A: Energy losses due to friction, heat, sound, vibration, or other forms of waste energy.

Q4: How is efficiency different from coefficient of performance?
A: Efficiency compares output to input, while COP compares desired output to required work input (can be >1 for heat pumps).

Q5: How can I improve efficiency?
A: Reduce friction, minimize heat losses, optimize system design, use energy recovery systems, and maintain equipment properly.