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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.

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This summary is machine-generated.

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.

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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.