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Single-temperature quantum engine without feedback control.

Juyeon Yi1, Peter Talkner2, Yong Woon Kim3

  • 1Department of Physics, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, South Korea.

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A novel quantum engine operates cyclically at a single temperature, using quantum measurement for energy input without feedback. This quantum mechanical engine

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Area of Science:

  • Quantum mechanics
  • Thermodynamics
  • Quantum computing

Background:

  • Classical engines require temperature gradients.
  • Quantum systems offer new thermodynamic possibilities.
  • Feedback control complicates engine design.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Propose a quantum engine operating at a single temperature.
  • Analyze energy input via quantum measurement.
  • Investigate engine efficiency without feedback control.

Main Methods:

  • Theoretical analysis of a quantum-mechanical engine.
  • Adiabatic compression and expansion of working substances.
  • Formulation of general expressions for work, heat, and efficiency.

Main Results:

  • A cyclically working quantum engine operating at a single temperature is proposed.
  • Energy input is achieved through quantum measurement.
  • No feedback control is necessary for engine operation.
  • General expressions for work, heat, and efficiency were derived.

Conclusions:

  • The proposed quantum engine offers a novel approach to energy conversion.
  • Quantum measurement can serve as an energy source for engines.
  • The engine's operation is simplified by the absence of feedback control.