Apparent violations of the second law in the quantum-classical dynamics of interacting levitated nanoparticles

TL;DR

This paper explores how apparent violations of the second law of thermodynamics, called free lunches, can occur in a hybrid quantum-classical system of interacting levitated nanoparticles, analyzing the influence of initial quantum states.

Contribution

It introduces the study of hybrid quantum-classical systems from a stochastic thermodynamics perspective, focusing on energy exchanges and violations in a specific nanoparticle model.

Findings

Identification of conditions leading to free lunches in the system

Analysis of how initial quantum states affect energy fluctuations

Establishment of a framework for stochastic thermodynamics in hybrid systems

Abstract

Random exchanges of energy arise naturally in stochastic systems. As a consequence, apparent violations of the second law of thermodynamics can occur, as it holds true on average. Here we investigate the occurrence of these apparent violations -- termed free lunches -- in a quantum-classical system comprised of levitated nanoparticles exchanging energy via the Coulomb interaction. We consider different initial states for the quantum system, and how these exert work and fluctuations upon the classical particle affecting the probability of free lunches. With that, we initiate the study of hybrid quantum-classical systems through the lens of stochastic thermodynamics.