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Relativistic quantum heat engine from uncertainty relation standpoint
Pritam Chattopadhyay1, Goutam Paul2
1Cryptology and Security Research Unit, R.C. Bose Center for Cryptology and Security, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, 700108, India. pritam.cphys@gmail.com.
Scientific Reports
|November 20, 2019
Summary
This study introduces a quantum heat engine using a relativistic particle in a potential well. It explores work extraction and efficiency bounds using the uncertainty relation for quantum thermodynamics.
Area of Science:
- Quantum thermodynamics
- Quantum heat engines
- Relativistic quantum mechanics
Background:
- Quantum systems serve as working substances in established quantum heat engines.
- Non-relativistic models use systems like the infinite potential well.
- Understanding relativistic quantum effects in heat engines is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose and analyze a quantum heat engine model utilizing a relativistic particle confined in a one-dimensional potential well.
- To investigate the relationship between quantum observables and measurable thermodynamic parameters like efficiency and work done.
- To explore work extraction and efficiency bounds through the lens of the uncertainty relation.
Main Methods:
- Modeling a quantum heat engine with a relativistic particle in a 1D potential well.
- Defining a thermodynamic cycle with isothermal and potential well processes (quantum isochoric).
- Developing a link between thermodynamic variables and the uncertainty relation (position-momentum).
Main Results:
- The proposed model allows for the exploration of work extraction in a relativistic quantum heat engine.
- Efficiency and work done are analyzed from the perspective of the uncertainty relation.
- The thermal uncertainty relation is used to determine the upper and lower bounds of the engine's efficiency.
Conclusions:
- A novel quantum heat engine model using relativistic particles is presented.
- The uncertainty relation provides a framework for understanding thermodynamic properties in quantum systems.
- This approach offers insights into the fundamental limits of quantum heat engine efficiency.
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