It is often useful to plot the thermodynamic state transitions and the cycles in terms of temperature (or enthalpy) and entropy, $ T$ , $ S$ , rather than $ P$ , $ V$ . The maximum temperature is often the constraint on the process and the enthalpy changes show the work done or heat received directly, so that plotting in terms of these variables provides insight into the process. A Carnot cycle is shown below in these coordinates, in which it is a rectangle, with two horizontal, constant temperature legs. The other two legs are reversible and adiabatic, hence isentropic ( [画像:$ dS = dQ_\textrm{rev}/T= 0$] ), and therefore vertical in $ T$ -$ s$ coordinates.
If the cycle is traversed clockwise, the heat added is
The heat rejected (from $ c$ to $ d$ ) has magnitude [画像:$ \vert Q_L\vert = T_L \Delta S$] .
The work done by the cycle can be found using the first law for a reversible process:
Muddy Points
How does one interpret $ h$ -$ s$ diagrams? (MP 6.3)
Is it always OK to ``switch'' $ T$ -$ s$ and $ h$ -$ s$ diagram? (MP 6.4)
What is the best way to become comfortable with $ T$ -$ s$ diagrams? (MP 6.5)
What is a reversible adiabat physically? (MP 6.6)