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Thermophoresis in elementary open quantum systems
Maurício Matos1, Thiago Werlang1, Daniel Valente1,2
1Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Instituto de Física, Cuiabá, MT, Brazil.
Physical Review. E
|March 20, 2026
Summary
We discovered quantum thermophoresis, where quantum particles move along thermal gradients. This phenomenon is influenced by quantum tunneling and thermal bath properties, opening new avenues for quantum state preparation.
Area of Science:
- Quantum physics
- Condensed matter physics
- Statistical mechanics
Background:
- Thermophoresis describes particle movement in response to temperature differences.
- Quantum mechanics introduces unique behaviors for particles at microscopic scales.
Purpose of the Study:
- To theoretically explore a quantum mechanical version of thermophoresis.
- To investigate the role of quantum tunneling and thermal bath properties in this process.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical analysis of a trapped quantum particle in a double-well potential.
- Derivation of a diffusion equation for an N-site model in the continuum limit (N→∞).
Main Results:
- A thermophoretic force was identified on a trapped quantum particle.
- Quantum thermophoresis was demonstrated in an N-site model, with a derived diffusion equation.
- Distinct quantum thermophoretic signatures were observed in particle transport dynamics.
Conclusions:
- Single quantum particles exhibit thermally induced transport.
- Thermal gradients can be utilized for quantum-state preparation.
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