Thermodynamics of quantum heat engines

Goswami, Himangshu Prabal and Harbola, Upendra (2013) Thermodynamics of quantum heat engines. In: PHYSICAL REVIEW A, 88 (1).

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Abstract

We consider a recently proposed four-level quantum heat engine (QHE) model to analyze the role of quantum coherences in determining the thermodynamic properties of the engine, such as flux, output power, and efficiency. A quantitative analysis of the relative effects of the coherences induced by the two thermal baths is brought out. By taking account of the dissipation in the cavity mode, we define useful work obtained from the QHE and present some analytical results for the optimal values of relative coherences that maximizes flux (hence output power) through the engine. We also analyze the role of quantum effects in inducing population inversion (lasing) between the states coupled to the cavity mode. The universal behavior of the efficiency at maximum power (EMP) is examined. In accordance with earlier theoretical predictions, to leading order, we find that EMP similar to eta(c)/2, where eta(c) is Carnot efficiency. However, the next higher order coefficient is system dependent and hence nonuniversal.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Publication:	PHYSICAL REVIEW A
Publisher:	AMER PHYSICAL SOC
Additional Information:	Copyright of this article is belongs to AMER PHYSICAL SOC
Department/Centre:	Division of Chemical Sciences > Inorganic & Physical Chemistry
Date Deposited:	24 Sep 2013 07:29
Last Modified:	24 Sep 2013 07:29
URI:	http://eprints.iisc.ac.in/id/eprint/47298

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