1111.7199 (Jordan M. Horowitz)

Quantum Trajectory Approach to the Stochastic Thermodynamics of a Forced
Harmonic Oscillator    [PDF]

Jordan M. Horowitz

I formulate a quantum stochastic thermodynamics for the quantum trajectories
of a continuously-monitored forced harmonic oscillator coupled to a thermal
reservoir. Consistent trajectory-dependent definitions are introduced for work,
heat, and entropy, through engineering the thermal reservoir from a sequence of
two-level systems. Within this formalism the connection between irreversibility
and entropy production is analyzed and confirmed by proving a detailed
fluctuation theorem for quantum trajectories. Finally, possible experimental
verifications are discussed.

View original: http://arxiv.org/abs/1111.7199