Algebraic mechanics as an accessible toy model demonstrating entropy generation from reversible microscopic dynamics

TL;DR

This paper introduces a simple algebraic mechanics toy model that demonstrates how entropy can increase in reversible microscopic systems, clarifying fundamental aspects of irreversibility and the arrow of time.

Contribution

It presents a novel algebraic mechanics model that illustrates entropy generation from reversible dynamics and discusses implications for quantum measurement and wave function collapse.

Findings

Entropy increases in the toy model despite reversible dynamics.

Insights applicable to classical and quantum microscopic systems.

Provides a simple framework to understand irreversibility and wave function collapse.

Abstract

One observes that a considerable level of confusion remains about some of those aspects of irreversibility, entropy generation and `the arrow of time' which actually are well understood. This demands that great care must be taken in any discussion of irreversibility to use clear-cut notions and precise language in order to be definite about which property follows from which assumption. In this work, a novel toy model of `algebraic mechanics' is presented that elucidates specific key aspects of entropy generation in a system with extremely simple reversible fundamental dynamics. It is argued why insights gained through a detailed quantitative study of this toy model also have to be taken into account for any realistic model of microscopic dynamics, classical or quantum alike. As irreversibility also touches upon the quantum mechanical measurement process (through the `proof' of the `H-Theorem'), a simple way to address the tenacious question `when (and how) the wave function collapses' is offered.