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Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons™
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Full-Text Articles in Physical Sciences and Mathematics
A Mathematical Investigation Of Landauer’S Principle, Paul Bracken
A Mathematical Investigation Of Landauer’S Principle, Paul Bracken
School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences Faculty Publications and Presentations
A minimal mathematical approach is used to state Landauer’s principle in a precise, general way. The results are obtained by means of a rigorous development which is based on the use of quantum statistical mechanics. A mathematical form of the principle results as an equality rather than an inequality. The equality version does imply the original statement of the principle as introduced by Landauer.
An Introduction To Generalized Entropy And Some Quantum Applications, Paul Bracken
An Introduction To Generalized Entropy And Some Quantum Applications, Paul Bracken
School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences Faculty Publications and Presentations
The concept of generalized entropy is introduced and some of its properties are studied. Irreversible time evolution can be generated by a non-Hermitian superoperator on the states of the system. The case when irreversibility comes about from embedding the system in a thermal reservoir is looked at. The time evolution is found compatible both with equilibrium thermodynamics and entropy production near the final state. Some examples are presented as well as a longer introduction as to how this might play a role in the black hole information loss paradox.
Quantum Dynamics, Entropy And Quantum Versions Of Maxwell’S Demon, Paul Bracken
Quantum Dynamics, Entropy And Quantum Versions Of Maxwell’S Demon, Paul Bracken
School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences Faculty Publications and Presentations
Several subjects which reside in the overlap area of quantum mechanics, statistical physics and thermodynamics are investigated in depth. This collection of subjects shares a common domain which is referred to as Maxwell’s demon. The classical version of this idea is introduced, and then, the contribution made by Szilard to the subject is presented. Several demons are considered, and it is shown that to best understand this area, quantum mechanics and the role information plays in it must be appreciated deeply.