Quantum Finite-Time Thermodynamics: Insight from a Single Qubit Engine

Abstract

Incorporating time into thermodynamics allows for addressing the tradeoff between efficiency and power. A qubit engine serves as a toy model in order to study this tradeoff from first principles, based on the quantum theory of open systems. We study the quantum origin of irreversibility, originating from heat transport, quantum friction, and thermalization in the presence of external driving. We construct various finite-time engine cycles that are based on the Otto and Carnot templates. Our analysis highlights the role of coherence and the quantum origin of entropy production.

Keywords

• finite-time thermodynamics
• quantum thermodynamics
• quantum heat engine
• carnot cycle
• otto cycle