Optimal finite-time processes in stochastic thermodynamics

Abstract

For a small system like a colloidal particle or a single biomolecule embedded in a heat bath, the optimal protocol of an external control parameter minimizes the mean work required to drive the system from one given equilibrium state to another in a finite time. In general, this optimal protocol obeys an integro-differential equation. Explicite solutions both for a moving laser trap and a time-dependent strength of such a trap show finite jumps of the optimal protocol to be typical both at the beginning and the end of the process.

4 pages, 1 figure, accepted for publication in Phys. Rev. Lett

References in corpus (4)

• Rare events and the convergence of exponentially averaged work values
• Integral fluctuation theorem for the housekeeping heat
• Comparison of free energy methods for molecular systems
• Work probability distribution in single molecule experiments

Cited by in corpus (11)

• Efficiency at maximum power: An analytically solvable model for stochastic heat engines
• Fluctuation theorems for stochastic dynamics
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• Escorted Free Energy Simulations: Improving Convergence by Reducing Dissipation
• Computing the optimal protocol for finite-time processes in stochastic thermodynamics
• Optimal potentials for temperature ratchets
• Thermodynamics of adiabatic feedback control
• Optimal operation of feedback flashing ratchets
• Density-Dependent Analysis of Nonequilibrium Paths Improves Free Energy Estimates
• Prior-predictive value from fast growth simulations