New horizons in Nonequilibrium Quantum Thermodynamics: Theory and Experiment
Abstract
In the last two decades the field of nonequilibrium thermodynamics and statisticalmechanicshas received an intense momentum in its development. This renewed interest was triggered by the discovery of a number of new results, known as fluctuation theorems, or fluctuation relations, which link the full nonlinear response to equilibrium thermodynamic properties [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. Since then, the field of investigation of nonequilibrium thermodynamics has generated grand interest and flourished considerably (see, e.g., the reviews [6, 7, 8, 9] and references therein). The reasons for this great interest are multiple, but all may be traced back to the relevance of fluctuation relations for the development of nanoscale sciences and technology, in particular, because they constitute a major tool for investigating thermodynamics in the quantum regime [10]. Due to their small scale structure, nano-systems and devices are subject to large fluctuations. The paradigmatic view that inspires and motivates the recent development of nonequilibrium thermodynamics in general, and this proposed conference in particular is that fluctuations are not mere noise to be taken rid of, but rather contain precious information about the dynamics and operation of nano systems and devices.As testified by a number of recent reviews, the field of investigation concerning fluctuation relations has already reached a good degree of maturity [6, 7, 8, 9]. Fluctuation relations have been theoretically investigated in many different set-ups, ranging from quantum to classical systems, from open to closed systems, from transient nonequilibrium states to sustained nonequilibrium stationary states. This intense activity has determined (i) a deep understanding of the physics of fluctuations in equilibrium and off-equilibrium, (ii) the mechanisms that underlie them, (iv) the prominent role that microreversibility plays in shaping their peculiar properties, (v) their relation to dissipation, and their impact, e.g., for the nonlinear characteristics of transport in nano- structures, to name but a few.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 26, 2017
- Source ID
- N62909151C144
Entities
People
- Fabio Marchesoni
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Camerino