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Smallest quantum thermal machine: The effect of strong coupling and distributed thermal tasks
1Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Laser Polarization and Information Technology, Department of Physics, Qufu Normal University, Qufu 273165, China.
Physical Review. E
|January 20, 2018
Summary
This study explores a single qutrit thermal machine, finding strong coupling hinders cooling one target. However, it enables distributed tasks like simultaneous cooling and heating of two targets, even reversing temperatures.
Area of Science:
- Quantum thermodynamics
- Quantum information science
- Solid-state physics
Background:
- Smallest self-contained thermal machines offer insights into fundamental thermodynamic principles.
- Investigating quantum thermal machines requires understanding the impact of coupling strengths.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the performance of a single qutrit thermal machine when strong internal coupling is considered.
- To explore the machine's capability for performing distributed tasks on multiple targets.
Main Methods:
- Relaxing the weak internal coupling assumption in a single qutrit thermal machine model.
- Analyzing heat current contributions from eigenstate transitions under strong coupling.
- Simulating the machine's operation with two targets and adjustable coupling strengths.
Main Results:
- Strong coupling does not enhance refrigeration when cooling a single target.
- The machine can perform distributed tasks, cooling one target while heating another.
- Temperature reversal is demonstrated, where a qubit coupled to a hot reservoir is cooled below the temperature of a qubit coupled to a cold reservoir.
Conclusions:
- The internal coupling strength significantly influences the functionality of quantum thermal machines.
- Single qutrit machines can be engineered for complex, distributed thermodynamic operations.
- Quantum thermal machines offer novel possibilities for thermal management and control.
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