Jarzynski equality for the transitions between nonequilibrium steady states

TL;DR

This paper extends the Jarzynski equality to transitions between nonequilibrium steady states, supported by numerical validation and discussing implications for nonequilibrium thermodynamics.

Contribution

The study modifies the Jarzynski equality for nonequilibrium steady states and confirms its validity through numerical results, broadening its applicability.

Findings

Jarzynski equality applies to nonequilibrium steady states with slight modifications

Numerical results support the extended equality's validity

Discusses implications for nonequilibrium thermodynamics

Abstract

Jarzynski equality [Phys. Rev. E {\bf 56}, 5018 (1997)] is found to be valid with slight modefication for the transitions between nonequilibrium stationary states, as well as the one between equilibrium states. Also numerical results confirm its validity. Its relevance for nonequilibrium thermodynamics of the operational formalism is discussed.