How do I work out the efficiency of a process from a Sankey diagram?

The formula for efficiency is:

efficiency = (useful energy / total energy)

Therefore, first we must find the total energy which is the sum of all of the branches of the Sankey diagram. So take the energy specified at each branch and add them to find a total.

The useful energy will be the energy specified by the branch which does not turn off to one side- it carries on straight forwards. For example, in a circuit with a light bulb, the useful energy will be the light energy. 

Divide the useful energy by the total energy and you will get the efficiency which should be between 0 and 1. Multiply by 100 to find the percentage efficiency. 

KR
Answered by Katherine R. Physics tutor

24444 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

A 6.0W bulb is connected to a source of 480J of energy. Assuming the system is 100% efficient, and the bulb runs at full power, how long can it stay lit?


What is the difference between nuclear fission and fusion?


A car is travelling at 10m/s. It then accelerates at a constant rate.Find the time taken for the car to travel 1km if the car’s final velocity is then 22m/s .


What types of radiation are there?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning