Heat, work, and fluctuations in a driven quantum resonator

TL;DR

This paper explores the thermodynamics of a driven quantum resonator, analyzing work, heat flow, and photon exchange fluctuations to advance understanding of quantum heat engines.

Contribution

It provides a detailed analysis of heat, work, and fluctuations in a driven quantum resonator, including full photon exchange statistics, beyond linear response.

Findings

Quantitative insights into heat and work in quantum resonators

Full photon exchange distribution characterized by cumulants

Implications for designing quantum heat engines

Abstract

A central building block of a heat engine is the working fluid, which mediates the conversion of heat into work. In nanoscale heat engines, the working fluid can be a quantum system whose behavior and dynamics are non-classical. A particularly versatile realization is a quantum resonator, which allows for precise control and coupling to thermal reservoirs, making it an ideal platform for exploring quantum thermodynamic processes. Here, we investigate the thermodynamic properties of a driven quantum resonator whose temperature is controlled by modulating its natural frequency. We evaluate the work performed by the external drive and the resulting heat flow between the resonator and its environment, both within linear response and beyond. To further elucidate these processes, we determine the full distribution of photon exchanges between the resonator and its environment, characterized by its first few cumulants. Our results provide quantitative insights into the interplay between heat, work, and fluctuations, and may help in designing future heat engines.