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Updated: May 29, 2026
09:23
Quantum State Engineering of Light with Continuous-wave Optical Parametric Oscillators
Published on: May 30, 2014
Quantum heat engine power can be increased by noise-induced coherence
Marlan O Scully1, Kimberly R Chapin, Konstantin E Dorfman
1Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA. scully@tamu.edu
Summary
Noise-induced coherence can enhance power output in quantum heat engines (QHEs), such as lasers and photocells. This coherence, surprisingly generated by the engine
Area of Science:
- Quantum thermodynamics and quantum optics.
- Exploration of quantum heat engines (QHEs) including lasers and photocells.
Background:
- Quantum heat engines are powered by thermal light and governed by quantum thermodynamics.
- Historically, Planck and Einstein's work on thermal light introduced quantum concepts.
- Detailed balance principle limits efficiency, but quantum coherence can overcome this.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if noise-induced coherence can break detailed balance in QHEs.
- To determine if this coherence can increase power output from laser and photocell QHEs.
- To assess the robustness of noise-induced coherence against environmental decoherence.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical analysis of laser and photocell quantum heat engines.
- Investigating the role of quantum coherence, particularly noise-induced coherence.
- Modeling the impact of thermal emission and absorption processes on coherence.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated that noise-induced coherence enables breaking of the detailed balance limit.
- Showed that this coherence can significantly increase power output from QHEs.
- Found that the induced coherence can be robust against environmental decoherence.
Conclusions:
- Noise-induced coherence offers a novel pathway to enhance quantum heat engine performance.
- This approach utilizes inherent thermal processes to boost efficiency and power.
- Results suggest potential for more efficient lasers and photocells through quantum control.
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