Single-temperature quantum engine without feedback control.

Yi, Juyeon; Talkner, Peter; Kim, Yong Woon · Phys Rev E · 2017

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

A cyclically working quantum-mechanical engine that operates at a single temperature is proposed. Its energy input is delivered by a quantum measurement. The functioning of the engine does not require any feedback control. We analyze work, heat, and the efficiency of the engine for the case of a working substance that is governed by the laws of quantum mechanics and that can be adiabatically compressed and expanded. The obtained general expressions are exemplified for a spin in an adiabatically changing magnetic field and a particle moving in a potential with slowly changing shape.