Fluctuation theorems for continuously monitored quantum fluxes

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that quantum fluctuation theorems are robust under continuous or multiple measurements during a force protocol, maintaining their validity and enabling better experimental connection.

Contribution

It shows that quantum fluctuation theorems hold even with ongoing measurements, bridging theory and continuous monitoring experiments.

Findings

Fluctuation theorems are unaffected by measurements during protocols.

Backward and forward probabilities are altered but their ratio remains constant.

The results connect theoretical fluctuation theorems with continuous flux measurements.

Abstract

It is shown that quantum fluctuation theorems remain unaffected if measurements of any kind and number of observables are performed during the action of a force protocol. That is, although the backward and forward probabilities entering the fluctuation theorems are both altered by these measurements, their ratio remains unchanged. This observation allows to describe the measurement of fluxes through interfaces and, in this way, to bridge the gap between the current theory, based on only two measurements performed at the beginning and end of the protocol, and experiments that are based on continuous monitoring.