This module uses screencasts and interactive simulation(s) to explain the Carnot cycle, which is an idealized cycle that yields the maximum work that can be obtained by transferring heat from a high-temperature reservoir to a low-temperature reservoir. It then provides example problems to allow the user to test themselves. Your retention of material in this module will increase if you write down reasons for your answers to ConcepTests, questions in screencasts, and questions to answer before using the interactive simulation(s), and you try to solve the example problems before watching the screencast solutions. We suggest using the learning resources in the following order:

1. Attempt to answer the multiple-choice ConcepTest and solve the example problem before watching the screencasts or working with the simulations.
2. Watch the screencasts that describe the Carnot cycle and answer the questions within the screencasts.
3. Review important equations for the Carnot cycle.
4. Use the interactive simulation(s) to further understand the behavior of the Carnot cycle.
5. Try to solve the example problems before watching the solutions in the screencasts.
6. Answer the ConcepTests.
7. Look at the list of key points, but only after you try to list the key points yourself.