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Gauge-Invariant Quantum Thermodynamics: Consequences for the First Law
Lucas C Céleri1, Łukasz Rudnicki2
1QPequi Group, Institute of Physics, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, Brazil.
Entropy (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 23, 2024
Summary
Classical thermodynamics relies on coarse-graining due to limited control. This study introduces gauge transformations in quantum thermodynamics, offering a new framework to understand thermal fluctuations and quantum information in small systems.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Thermodynamics
- Statistical Mechanics
- Information Theory
Background:
- Classical thermodynamics assumes coarse-graining due to lack of control over microscopic details.
- Thermal fluctuations in small systems require understanding via stochastic mechanics.
- Quantum systems offer high control, necessitating information theory for thermodynamic functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a new framework for quantum thermodynamics.
- To introduce physically motivated gauge transformations.
- To re-examine quantum work, heat, and coherence within this new framework.
Main Methods:
- Drawing from gauge symmetry in physical theories.
- Developing quantum gauge transformations.
- Applying the framework to reinterpret quantum work, heat, and coherence.
Main Results:
- Explicit construction of gauge transformations encoding a gentle coarse-graining.
- A novel approach to bridging classical and quantum thermodynamics.
- Reinterpretation of fundamental thermodynamic quantities in quantum systems.
Conclusions:
- Gauge transformations provide a new perspective on coarse-graining in quantum thermodynamics.
- This framework offers a more nuanced understanding of thermodynamic processes in quantum regimes.
- The study opens avenues for exploring quantum information and thermodynamics.
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