Small quantum networks operating as quantum thermodynamic machines

Abstract

We show that a 3-qubit system as studied for quantum information purposes can alternatively be used as a thermodynamic machine when driven in finite time and interfaced between two split baths. The spins are arranged in a chain where the working spin in the middle exercises Carnot cycles the area of which defines the exchanged work. The cycle orientation (sign of the exchanged work) flips as the difference of bath temperatures goes through a critical value.

RevTeX, 4 pages, 7 figures. Replaced by version accepted for publication in EPL

References in corpus (1)

• Global and local relaxation of a spin-chain under exact Schroedinger and master-equation dynamics

Cited by in corpus (6)

• Work extremum principle: Structure and function of quantum heat engines
• Driven Spin Systems as Quantum Thermodynamic Machines: Fundamental Limits
• Local effective dynamics of quantum systems: A generalized approach to work and heat
• A Cyclic Cooling Algorithm
• Quantum thermodynamic processes: A control theory for machine cycles
• Cavity-induced temperature control of a two-level system