The thermal efficiency ([latex]\eta_{th}[/latex]) of an ideal Otto cycle is a function of the compression ratio ([latex]r[/latex]) and the specific heat ratio ([latex]\gamma[/latex]) of the working fluid. The formula is [latex]\eta_{th} = 1 – \frac{1}{r^{\gamma-1}}[/latex]. This equation shows that efficiency increases with the compression ratio, providing a fundamental principle for engine design and performance optimization.











