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Updated: May 29, 2026
04:58
A Rapid Method for Modeling a Variable Cycle Engine
Published on: August 13, 2019
Information from time-forward and time-backward processes in Szilard engines
1Department of Physics, Pusan National University, Busan 609-735, Korea.
Summary
This study calculates the work in a Szilard engine (SZE) using nonequilibrium thermodynamics. The work is determined by comparing measurement probabilities from forward and backward time processes.
Area of Science:
- Thermodynamics
- Statistical Mechanics
- Information Theory
Background:
- The Szilard engine (SZE) is a theoretical construct exploring the relationship between information and thermodynamics.
- Understanding work dissipation in information engines is crucial for developing efficient nanoscale devices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To derive the work performed in the Szilard engine (SZE).
- To apply the dissipative work formula from nonequilibrium thermodynamics to the SZE.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the dissipative work formula developed by Kawai et al.
- Analyzed probability distributions of measurement outcomes for time-forward and time-backward processes.
Main Results:
- The work performed in the SZE was successfully derived.
- Work was characterized as the difference between forward and backward time measurement probability distributions.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a thermodynamic framework for quantifying work in the SZE.
- This approach offers insights into the fundamental limits of information-to-energy conversion.
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