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Channels, measurements, and postselection in quantum thermodynamics
1H.H. Wills Physics Laboratory, University of Bristol, Tyndall Avenue, Bristol BS8 1TL, United Kingdom.
Physical Review. E
|August 20, 2021
Summary
This study explores the work extraction benefits of single quantum channel or measurement uses in quantum thermodynamics. It reveals connections between unital and catalytic channels, and significant work benefits from postselected measurements.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Thermodynamics
- Quantum Information Theory
Background:
- Quantum thermodynamics investigates the interplay between quantum mechanics and thermodynamics.
- Understanding work extraction is crucial for developing quantum technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the work extraction benefits of single uses of quantum channels and measurements.
- To explore the relationship between unital and catalytic channels.
- To investigate the implications of postselected measurements on work benefit.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of work extraction in quantum thermodynamic processes.
- Investigation of conditional work costs for measurements.
- Examination of postselected quantum measurements.
Main Results:
- A connection between unital and catalytic channels regarding work extraction is established.
- Subtleties in conditional work costs for measurements are identified.
- Any nontrivial postselection in measurements leads to an unbounded work benefit.
Conclusions:
- Single uses of quantum channels and measurements offer significant work extraction advantages.
- Postselected measurements provide a pathway to substantial, unbounded work benefits in quantum thermodynamics.
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