International collaboration sheds new light on the relationship between quantum theory and thermodynamics

Researchers from Nagoya University in Japan and the Slovak Academy of Sciences have published new insights into the interaction between quantum theory and thermodynamics. The team demonstrated that quantum theory essentially does not prohibit violations of the second law of thermodynamics, but that quantum processes could be implemented without actually violating the law.

This finding, published in the NPJ Quantum Information, highlights the harmonious coexistence between the two fields despite logical independence. Their findings pave the new pathway for understanding the thermodynamic boundaries of quantum technologies such as quantum computing and nanoscale engines.

This breakthrough contributes to a long-standing exploration of the second law of thermodynamics. This is a principle considered one of the deepest and most enigmatic of physics.

The second law argues that entropy (a measure of failure within a system) does not naturally decrease. It also states that an annular operating engine cannot generate mechanical work by extracting heat from a single thermal environment, emphasizing the concept of unidirectional flow of time.

Despite its fundamental role, the second law continues to be one of the most discussed and misunderstood principles in science. The central part of this debate is the paradox of Maxwell’s Devil, a thought experiment proposed by physicist James Clark Maxwell in 1867.

Maxwell imagined a hypothetical entity, the demon, that could organize molecules at high speed and slowness within a gas in thermal equilibrium without expending energy. By separating these molecules into different regions, the devil can create temperature differences. Once the system returns to equilibrium, the mechanical work is extracted and appears to be against the second law of thermodynamics.

Paradox has been intrigued by physicists for more than a century, raising questions about the universality of law and whether it depends on the knowledge and capabilities of observers. The paradox solution is primarily focused on treating the devil as a physical system that is subject to thermodynamic laws.

The proposed solution is to erase the memory of the demons who require mechanical work expenditures and effectively offset violations of the Second Act.

To further explore this phenomenon, researchers developed a mathematical model of the “Devil’s Engine,” a system equipped with Maxwell’s demons. Their approach is rooted in the theory of quantum instruments. This is a framework introduced in the 1970s and 1980s to explain the most common forms of quantum measurement.

The model includes three steps. The daemon measures the target system, couples it to the thermal environment, extracts work from it, and ultimately erases memory by interacting with the same environment.

Using this framework, the teams are expressed in terms of quantum information measurements such as von Neumann entropy and GroEnewold-ozawa information gain, and the exact equations of the work they devoted to extracting. I have derived the following. Comparing these equations yielded surprising results.

“Our results violate the second law of thermodynamics, even after considering all costs, under certain conditions permitted by quantum theory. “It shows that it appears to be,” explained Rev. Nishikai, the project’s lead researcher.

“This revelation was as exciting as it was unexpected, challenging the assumption that quantum theory is essentially “grown in the devil.” There are hidden horns in the framework where Maxwell’s demons can still cast spells. ”

Despite these loopholes, researchers emphasize that they do not pose a threat to the second legislation.

“Our research shows that despite these theoretical vulnerabilities, it is possible to design quantum processes so that it complies with the second law,” says Hamed Mohammady. It states.

“In other words, quantum theory could break the second law of thermodynamics, but in reality it is not necessary. This establishes a prominent harmony between quantum mechanics and thermodynamics. remains independent, but basically there is no conflict.”

The finding also suggests that the second law does not impose strict restrictions on quantum measurement. The processes permitted by quantum theory can be implemented without violating thermodynamic principles. By improving our understanding of this interaction, researchers aim to unlock new possibilities in quantum technology while maintaining the timeless principles of thermodynamics.

“One of the things we show in this paper is that quantum theory is actually logically independent of the second law of thermodynamics. That is, it means that it is “not knowing” at all. It could violate the law for just reasons,” explained Francesco Buscemi.

“Even so, this is also surprising, but you can achieve any quantum process without violating the second law of thermodynamics. This can be done by adding more systems until the thermodynamic balance is restored. Masu.”

The meaning of this study goes beyond theoretical physics. Illumination of the thermodynamic limits of quantum systems provides the foundation for innovation in quantum computing and nanoscale engines.

When exploring the field of quantum, this study reminds us of the delicate balance between the fundamental laws of nature and the possibilities for groundbreaking technological advancements.