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Updated: May 26, 2026
10:36
Advanced Experimental Methods for Low-temperature Magnetotransport Measurement of Novel Materials
Published on: January 21, 2016
Converting heat into directed transport on a tilted lattice
Colin Teo1, Ulf Bissbort1, Dario Poletti1,2
1Singapore University of Technology and Design, 8 Somapah Road, 487372 Singapore.
Physical Review. E
|April 19, 2017
Summary
This study introduces a novel engine using quantum systems (spins) and a particle on a tilted lattice. Energy transfer from spins to the particle drives upward motion, with velocity enhanced by resonant frequencies.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Thermodynamics
- Statistical Mechanics
- Condensed Matter Physics
Background:
- Investigating self-contained engines operating via quantum phenomena.
- Understanding energy and entropy transfer in coupled quantum systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate a particle's directed motion driven by quantum systems.
- To analyze the influence of spin properties and lattice tilt on particle dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Modeling a system of two-level quantum systems (spins) coupled to baths and a common load.
- Analyzing energy and entropy flow due to spin-bath and spin-load interactions.
Main Results:
- A particle on a tilted lattice achieves upward motion driven by energy/entropy increase from coupled spins.
- Particle velocity is maximized when lattice tilt resonates with spin energy splitting.
- Observed periodic cycles in spin polarization, with oscillation period dependent on lattice tilt.
Conclusions:
- Demonstrated a novel mechanism for directed particle motion using quantum thermodynamics.
- Highlighted the role of resonance and spin polarization dynamics in engine performance.
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