Small quantum networks operating as quantum thermodynamic machines
Statistical Mechanics
2007-05-23 v2 Mesoscale and Nanoscale Physics
Quantum Physics
Abstract
We show that a 3-qubit system as studied for quantum information purposes can alternatively be used as a thermodynamic machine when driven in finite time and interfaced between two split baths. The spins are arranged in a chain where the working spin in the middle exercises Carnot cycles the area of which defines the exchanged work. The cycle orientation (sign of the exchanged work) flips as the difference of bath temperatures goes through a critical value.
Cite
@article{arxiv.cond-mat/0604202,
title = {Small quantum networks operating as quantum thermodynamic machines},
author = {M. J. Henrich and M. Michel and G. Mahler},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:cond-mat/0604202},
year = {2007}
}
Comments
RevTeX, 4 pages, 7 figures. Replaced by version accepted for publication in EPL