Fluctuation Theorem and Microreversibility in a Quantum Coherent Conductor

TL;DR

This paper explores the fluctuation theorem in quantum coherent conductors, experimentally validating microreversibility and non-equilibrium quantum statistical physics through current and noise measurements in an Aharonov-Bohm ring.

Contribution

It introduces a simple tunneling model for mesoscopic systems and provides experimental evidence supporting the fluctuation theorem and microreversibility in quantum transport.

Findings

Validation of fluctuation theorem in mesoscopic transport

Experimental proof of microreversibility in quantum conductors

Current and noise measurements support theoretical predictions

Abstract

Mesoscopic systems provide us a unique experimental stage to address non-equilibrium quantum statistical physics. By using a simple tunneling model, we describe the electron exchange process via a quantum coherent conductor between two reservoirs, which yields the fluctuation theorem (FT) in mesoscopic transport. We experimentally show that such a treatment is semi-quantitatively validated in the current and noise measurement in an Aharonov-Bohm ring. The experimental proof of the microreversibility assumed in the derivation of FT is presented.