# A Definition Of Quantum Mechanical Work

## TL;DR

This paper proposes a new quantum mechanical work definition that aligns with classical concepts without trajectories, validated through case studies and comparisons with existing quantum thermodynamics definitions.

## Contribution

Introduces a novel quantum work definition preserving classical structure, tested via Gaussian states and the Caldirola-Kanai model, and compared with existing quantum thermodynamics approaches.

## Key findings

- The new definition aligns well with classical and semiclassical regimes.
- Promising results in quantum thermodynamics comparisons.
- Effective in superposition and mixed state analyses.

## Abstract

A definition of quantum mechanical work is introduced in this dissertation, preserving the mathematical structure of the Classical Mechanics concept of work without, however, in any way invoking the notion of trajectory. By use of Gaussian states and the Caldirola-Kanai model, a case study is conducted through which the proposed quantum work is compared with another Quantum Thermodynamics well-known definition, both in quantum and semiclassical regimes, showing promising results. Finally the new definition is investigated in comparison with a classical-statistical approach for superposition and mixed states.