Quantum measurement of work in mesoscopic systems

TL;DR

This paper explores the fundamental quantum limitations on measuring work in mesoscopic systems, highlighting how quantum uncertainties and back-reaction restrict the resolution of interference effects.

Contribution

It introduces a quantum uncertainty limitation that fundamentally constrains the measurement of work in quantum-driven mesoscopic systems, beyond classical back-reaction effects.

Findings

Quantum uncertainties set fundamental limits on work measurement.

Back-reaction imposes classical-like restrictions.

Super-resolution techniques cannot overcome quantum limitations.

Abstract

Heat and work in thermodynamics refer to the measurement of changes in energy content of external bodies (baths and agents). We discuss the implications of quantum mechanics on the possibility to measure work in a mesoscopic context. The agent is a quantum entity (say an oscillator) that is used to drive the system. An obvious limitation is related to back-reaction, leading to a classical-like restriction. We find that in order to resolve fingerprints of interference an additional quantum uncertainty limitation should be taken into account in the design of the agent. The quantum limitation is fundamental, and cannot be relaxed by super-resolution techniques.