Quantum Confinement and Negative Heat Capacity

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that negative heat capacity, previously observed only in classical finite systems, can also occur in finite quantum systems, opening new possibilities for nano device design.

Contribution

It is the first to show negative heat capacity in finite quantum systems, expanding understanding of quantum thermodynamics.

Findings

Negative heat capacity can occur in finite quantum systems.

Potential for experimental observation of quantum negative heat capacity.

Implications for designing nano-scale light harvesting devices.

Abstract

Thermodynamics dictates that the specific heat of a system is strictly non-negative. However, in finite classical systems there are well known theoretical and experimental cases where this rule is violated, in particular finite atomic clusters. Here, we show for the first time that negative heat capacity can also occur in finite quantum systems. The physical scenario on which this effect might be experimentally observed is discussed. Observing such an effect might lead to the design of new light harvesting nano devices, in particular a solar nano refrigerator.