Explore Quantum Thermodynamics with interactive simulations. Understand quantum systems, coherence, entanglement, and thermodynamic processes at microscopic scales through hands-on visualizations.
Quantum thermodynamics is an emerging field that combines the principles of quantum mechanics with thermodynamics to understand how thermodynamic laws apply at the quantum scale. While classical thermodynamics describes systems with a large number of particles, quantum thermodynamics examines systems where quantum effects dominate, such as individual atoms, molecules, or small collections of quantum particles.
This interdisciplinary field addresses fundamental questions about the nature of work, heat, and entropy in quantum systems, and has profound implications for quantum technologies including quantum computers, sensors, and engines.
Understanding how quantum systems interact with thermal environments
Select a quantum system type to see its thermodynamic properties.
Understanding quantum coherence and its loss in thermodynamic processes
Quantum coherence refers to the ability of a quantum system to exist in a superposition of states. In thermodynamic contexts, coherence plays a crucial role in determining how quantum systems exchange energy and information with their environments.
Coherence Function:
|ρ₁₂(t)| = |ρ₁₂(0)| × f(t)
Where f(t) depends on the decoherence model
Von Neumann entropy and quantum information theory
In quantum mechanics, entropy is quantified by the Von Neumann entropy:
S(ρ) = -Tr(ρ log ρ)
For a bipartite system: S(A,B) ≤ S(A) + S(B)
Maximally entangled two-qubit states:
Quantum thermodynamics in cutting-edge research and technology
Understanding thermodynamic limits and optimization of quantum processors.
Leveraging quantum properties for ultra-sensitive measurements.
Designing thermodynamic cycles that exploit quantum resources.
Quantum effects in photosynthesis and cellular processes.
Quantum information processing and communication.