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Characterizing autonomous Maxwell demons.

Nahuel Freitas1, Massimiliano Esposito1

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Autonomous Maxwell demons and linear devices can appear to defy thermodynamics by reversing current flow without energy input. However, current inversion in linear devices may be illusory, distinguishable by analyzing system-reservoir current fluctuations.

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Area of Science:

  • Thermodynamics
  • Statistical Mechanics
  • Non-equilibrium Physics

Background:

  • Autonomous Maxwell demons are theoretical constructs that appear to violate the second law of thermodynamics by sorting particles without external energy input.
  • Recent linear devices mimic Maxwell demon behavior, seemingly reversing current flow (e.g., thermal or electric gradients) without apparent energy consumption.
  • Distinguishing true thermodynamic reversal from apparent effects is crucial for understanding non-equilibrium systems.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To differentiate between traditional autonomous Maxwell demons and novel linear devices.
  • To clarify whether current inversion in linear devices is a genuine thermodynamic effect or an artifact.
  • To identify a method for distinguishing these two phenomena.

Main Methods:

  • Theoretical analysis of autonomous Maxwell demons and linear devices.
  • Comparison of current flow dynamics in both systems.
  • Analysis of system-reservoir current fluctuations as a distinguishing metric.

Main Results:

  • Linear devices may exhibit apparent current inversion due to exchanged currents, not a true reversal of the system's current.
  • The distinction between true and apparent current inversion can be revealed by local measurements.
  • Measuring fluctuations in system-reservoir currents provides a method to differentiate the two cases.

Conclusions:

  • Not all devices exhibiting current reversal without energy input operate as true Maxwell demons.
  • Linear devices can create an illusion of thermodynamic violation through indirect current manipulation.
  • System-reservoir current fluctuation analysis is a key diagnostic tool for autonomous Maxwell demons and related phenomena.